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Community Heroes
POSTPARTUM SUPPORT CENTER
By: Janet Carter | May 5, 2022
Becoming a parent is often portrayed as a magical and glorious life event. But 1 in 5 mothers don't feel joyful after giving birth. In fact, they feel exhausted, overwhelmed, sleep-deprived, guilty, worried, scared, anxious, inadequate, sad, lonely…
Postpartum Support Center (PPSC) is a 501(c)(3) community-based nonprofit organization founded in 2019 by a mother who severely suffered from maternal mental health complications in Marin County. Our mission is to provide a comprehensive support system and safe place for mothers/parents and families in need and to promote awareness and prevention of Perinatal Mental Health Disorders.
Almost twenty-five percent of women suffer from a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD) like postpartum depression and anxiety, making maternal mental health concerns the most common complication of childbirth in the U.S. And even though these disorders affect millions of women each year, new research shows that twenty percent of mothers don't disclose their symptoms to healthcare providers, while seventy-five percent of them are not treated at all. The statistics show that low income and black mothers are three times more likely to suffer from maternal mental health complications. Perinatal Mental Health Disorders are a common public health problem with serious and long-lasting consequences for the entire family. Unfortunately, not just mothers are affected. Children are at increased risk for cognitive, emotional, and behavioral problems. Marriages and relationships are also at risk of breakdowns.
The pandemic has significantly increased the risk of depressive and anxiety disorders. Up to forty-eight percent of low-income mothers report elevated PPD symptoms which have been linked with infant failure to thrive, increased risk for developmental delays, difficulty with social interactions, and increased risk for suicide.
Southern Marin Mothers’ Club is partnering with Postpartum Support Center (PPSC) this month and there are many ways to get involved and learn more! All the events are listed on the SMMC website calendar.
- Diaper Drive from May 2-19 with 3 drop-off locations or Amazon Wishlist - We hope to generate enough diapers to support 200 babies’ and toddlers' diaper needs for the month.
- Live Zoom to learn more about PPSC’s Founder, Ivana Jagodic Meholick, on May 11
- Volunteer at the diaper distribution day with a shift for school-aged kids to participate!
- Join Walk for Moms Fundraiser (only the month of May): With Maternal Mental Health conditions and consequences continuing to rise, we are inviting you to join our second annual Walk for Moms and help us break the stigma and raise awareness in the community! Visit the website to learn more: https://www.postpartumsc.org/
Janet Carter serves on the SMMC board as Director of Philanthropy. She is committed to helping members learn more about the wonderful organizations in Marin that support children, youth, mothers, and families. You can volunteer for events through the calendar or contact Janet at janetsmmc@gmail.com.
More from this issue:
Book Picks: Mother's Day Read >>
Community Heroes: Postpartum Support Center Read >>
May is for Mothers Read >>
Mindfulness in the Making: May We Be Mindful and Listen Read >>
Mother is the Teacher Read >>
Reach a Little Higher Read >>
Share the Bounty Read >>
SMMCpreneur: Ellie Dominguez of Ellie's Essential Blends Read >>
Something Good Read >>