Climb: For The Mental Health of New Parents

A Work of Heart Counseling is proud to be a local resource supporting the mental health needs of families - from new parents to children and teens. We have a team of dedicated and trained perinatal mental health professionals, because it not only takes a village but the village must truly be trained in how to support the holistic needs of new parents. However, we can't do it alone - and we are so proud to be part of the Perinatal Pros of North Jersey, many of whom are seeking to support organizations like Postpartum Support International at our upcoming Climb, which raises funds and awareness of PSI and Perinatal Mental Health.

#WeAre1in5 - Why We Climb for Perinatal Mental Health this June & Always

Navigating the early stages of parenthood can be as daunting as it is joyful. But for many new parents, especially those who have experienced postpartum mental health issues, it's a journey that can feel overwhelmingly isolating. This is why seeking mental health treatment is not just beneficial; it's essential. Through this blog post, I want to explore the reasons why mental health support is crucial for new parents and highlight how organizations like Postpartum Support International (PSI) can be a lifeline - and why continuing to fund them and end the stigma of PMHDs is so crucial. 

The Silent Struggle of New Parents

The transition into parenthood often brings unexpected emotional and psychological challenges. While society frequently paints this time with the broad strokes of happiness and fulfillment, the reality can be starkly different. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can emerge, particularly following difficult birthing experiences. These issues are more than just "baby blues;" they can deeply affect a parent's ability to bond with their baby and manage daily tasks.

Why Mental Health Treatment Matters

For parents facing these challenges, accessing mental health treatment can be transformative. Here’s why it’s so crucial: Therapy provides a space to process the birth experience and address any trauma, reducing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Mental health struggles can also affect how a parent interacts and bonds with their child. Treatment helps improve these interactions, which are crucial for the child’s emotional and social development.

It also equips parents with coping strategies and tools to handle the stresses of parenting, which fosters resilience and a more positive family environment.

The Role of Postpartum Support International

For those who feel they’re struggling, Postpartum Support International (PSI) offers a beacon of hope. PSI is dedicated to helping families affected by perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, providing support, advocacy, and education. They offer:

- Helplines: PSI has helplines available in English and Spanish, offering an immediate, accessible way to seek help.

- FREE Support Groups: Both online and in-person groups can connect you with peers who understand what you’re going through, reducing feelings of isolation.

- Educational Resources: From webinars to extensive literature on postpartum mental health, PSI provides valuable information to help parents and healthcare providers alike.

- Consultation Services: For more personalized support, PSI offers consultations to help connect you with the right mental health professionals and resources.

But, PSI needs our help, and so do new parents. With PMHDs being the #1 complication of childbirth, it is critical that we raise awareness, end the stigma, and continue to support PSI so they can continue to provide resources to families in need. If you want to be a part of the movement doing this work, consider joining Team Bergen's Climb on June 23, 2024 at Van Saun County Park to help end the stigma and support new families! There will be raffles/prizes, food, children's activities, shopping, local resources and more! To get involved join give.postpartum.net/bergen or email climboutbergen@gmail.com and be sure to follow us on social media at @climboutbergen 

The journey of parenthood, with all its highs and lows, is profoundly impacted by the mental health of new parents. Recognizing the signs of mental health issues and seeking appropriate treatment is not only beneficial for the parent but for their entire family. With resources like Postpartum Support International, no parent needs to face these challenges alone. Let’s make mental health a priority, for every parent’s sake.