Support for Postpartum Depression Through NAEBOR Health Clinics April 29, 2025 General NAEBOR Medical Clinics 0 SUPPORT FOR POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION THROUGH NAEBOR HEALTH CLINICS Expecting a child is a time of hope and excitement, but often there are other factors that make it a complicated experience. Many expecting parents face a whirlwind of emotions, from anxiety to depression, yet the focus might remain predominantly on physical health. Ignoring mental health during pregnancy is a significant oversight. Prenatal mental health is not just a secondary concern; it is crucial for the well-being of both parent and child. Prenatal care is not just about vitamins and checkups. Hunter et al. (2024) notes that 25.3% of pregnant individuals and 19.0% of those who have recently given birth experience depression and other mental health disorders. Postpartum Depression is significantly prevalent for low-income individuals and those with limited access to quality healthcare. Understanding and addressing mental health is essential. Working hand in hand with NAEBOR Health Clinics will prepare parents and baby alike for a happy emergence into the world. Postpartum depression is something that many new mothers face. NAEBOR serves the most vulnerable populations in the Inland Empire and recognizes the importance of immediate access to mental health care and resources for pregnant and postpartum individuals. NAEBOR employs a licensed clinical social worker who provides mental health services to all individuals requesting mental health services when seeking services at the clinic. Mental health screening and assessment are integral components of NAEBOR's care and is essential to recognizing and identifying those at risk for maternal mental health concerns. The availability of immediate mental health care is a significant advantage for NAEBOR. Understanding your risk for maternal mental health concerns is an important step in preparing for postpartum depression. It is vital that birthing individuals are aware of the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression. This is education that the NAEBOR social worker is equipped to provide. By being aware of the signs and taking action early, you can implement effective prenatal mental health strategies and prevent potential challenges. Here are a few ways to identify if you might be at risk for or experiencing postpartum depression. 1. History of depression or anxiety If you have a personal or family history of depression or anxiety, you may be at a higher risk for postpartum depression. This includes previous episodes of depression, even if they were not related to pregnancy. It is crucial to discuss your mental health history with your healthcare provider as part of your prenatal mental health strategies. 2. Stressful life events Experiencing significant stress during pregnancy, such as relationship issues financial problems, or the loss of a loved one, can increase the likelihood of postpartum depression. These stressors can overwhelm your ability to cope, making it essential to have postpartum depression strategies in place. For example, seeking counseling or support groups can be a part of your prenatal mental health plan. 3. Lack of support Feeling isolated or lacking a strong support system can contribute to postpartum depression. Having a network of supportive friends, family, or a partner can make a significant difference. Research states that social support plays a crucial role in how pregnant women cope with stress. When a pregnant woman has strong support from her network, it can help reduce negative emotions and concerns. Additionally, having this support increases the likelihood of a successful pregnancy. Incorporating prenatal mental health strategies like building a support system and communicating your needs can help in preventing postpartum depression. 4. Complications during pregnancy or birth Experiencing complications during pregnancy or childbirth, such as preterm labor or a difficult delivery, can increase your risk for postpartum depression. These challenges can be physically and emotionally draining. Preparing for postpartum mental health includes discussing potential complications with your healthcare provider and planning for extra support if needed. 5. Changes in sleep patterns Significant changes in sleep patterns during pregnancy can be a red flag for postpartum depression. Difficulty sleeping, frequent waking, or sleeping too much can all be indicators. Developing good sleep hygiene and addressing sleep issues as part of your prenatal mental health strategies can help manage this risk factor. 7 tips to build a support network before the baby arrives Creating a strong support network before your baby arrives is vital for your well-being. Having a reliable network can help with antenatal depression prevention and serve as a foundation for postpartum depression prevention tips. These connections offer emotional and practical support, smoothing the transition to parenthood. Here are 7 tips to help you build a support network before your baby arrives. 1. Connect with family and friends Reaching out to family and friends is one of the easiest ways to start building your support network. Let them know about your pregnancy and express your needs and concerns. Whether it is a friend who can listen or a family member who can help with errands, involving them can provide much-needed support. This is a key prenatal mental health strategy to ensure you have emotional and practical help. 2. Join a prenatal class Prenatal classes are a great way to meet other expecting parents who are going through similar experiences. These classes often provide valuable information on childbirth and parenting and offer an opportunity to form new friendships. The connections you make here can help you with your mental health planning for new moms. Antenatal classes provide practical knowledge about labor, postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, and early parental care. These classes can help reduce maternal anxiety, which in turn lowers potential risks for breastfeeding and infant development. Studies indicate that attending antenatal classes improves the overall mood and well-being of pregnant women, helping them manage labor pain more effectively. 3. Seek out online support groups Online support groups can be a lifeline, especially if you feel isolated or your loved ones are far away. There are numerous forums and social media groups for expecting and new parents where you can share your experiences and get advice. These virtual communities can be a part of your prenatal mental health strategies, offering support and connection. 4. Talk to your healthcare provider Your healthcare provider can be a valuable resource in building your support network. They can connect you with local resources, such as support groups or counseling services, that can help with early intervention for postpartum depression. Do not hesitate to discuss your mental health and any concerns you may have with them. 5. Engage with community resources Many communities offer resources for expecting parents, such as parenting classes, support groups, and home visit programs. Engaging with these resources can provide additional support and information. This is especially useful for antenatal depression prevention and can be an integral part of your postpartum depression prevention tips. 6. Establish a routine with your partner Working with your partner to establish a routine and discuss expectations can strengthen your support system. Share responsibilities and communicate openly about your needs and concerns. This teamwork approach can be part of your mental health planning for new moms, ensuring that both of you feel supported and prepared. 7. Plan for postpartum support Think ahead and plan for support after the baby arrives. Arrange for family or friends to help with household chores, meals, or taking care of the baby so you can rest. Having a plan in place for postpartum support is crucial for early intervention for postpartum depression and helps you manage the demands of new parenthood. NAEBOR IS HERE TO HELP. Please contact them at: Redlands Clinic: (909) 421-0493 Rialto Clinic: (909)792-2200 Website: www.naeborclinic.com Reference: Hunter, T. R., Chiew, B. A., McDonald, S., & Adhikari, K. (2024). The prevalence of maternal depression and anxiety beyond 1 year postpartum: a systematic review. Maternal and Child Health Journal, 28(8), 1283-1307. Comments are closed.
