Do you think that new parents would benefit from in-home counseling via (telehealth) to provide tools for bonding and attachment during the first 12 weeks postpartum? Scientific research posits that providing professional counseling can reduce the risk of postpartum depression and other perinatal mood disorders.
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Hi Teri,
Great question! Perinatal mood disorders are common and yet remain difficult to address (lack of identification, lack of treatment, stigma, etc).
Several states are studying this very model with new mothers.
Imagine if we could start supporting women of reproductive age before (preconception) they become pregnant. They could work on becoming physically and mentally well prior to becoming a parent and be in a place to welcome their new baby into their family.
Another idea is to address PMD at pediatric well-child visits. Moms will often prioritize their baby's health while neglecting their own needs. Integrating education about PMD into pediatric settings reduces one barrier to care. Additionally, when providers are aware that the dyad (usually mom & baby) is impacted by mood disorder or depression, they can offer additional sources of support.
The NEAR Science toolkit is a valuable tool for home visitors. I wonder if the NEAR model aligns with those serving families by phone or video calls?
Please keep asking questions and nudging folks to think outside the box!
Karen
Like all of Karen’s suggestions!
Just as hourly support is needed to remind mothers to rest, drink and eat enough to stay hydrated and keep milk, this method could serve as a support of encouragement and health. However, it cannot become another “task” another responsibility or something she forgets to log into or answer the tele-appointment. From which she will withdraw, triggered from feelings of incompetence.
The solution is people around her.
About 10 years ago with my motherhood nonprofit, I did a little work around post-partum support. Outreach to communities providing her with hands on support and care in the home is needed. The Toolkit Karen shares is fantastic resource.
Prevention in educating young girls, helping them understand their bodies, including their mind.
Interesting topic. I’m actually unpacking a situation and may have a testimony to share.
Marcy
Maybe I just like to learn but instead of counseling - I’m wondering if helping a mother understand a baby’s communication cues (like the NBO) and also how the baby’s brain needs the dyadic relationship to develop a secure attachment and then a secure base to explore.
I also know that a really knowledgeable pediatrician could bring this into the office at well child checks and that’s great. Maybe coordination?
Whatever we need to do I’m all for because Disorganized Attachment is a learned behavior with devastating consequences -
