
LIFE WITH A NEW BABY
PROVINCIAL CAMPAIGN
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Having a baby is supposed to be one of the happiest times in a woman's life but sometimes it's not. Many new mothers feel worried, sad, overwhelmed or angry after the birth of a baby. Postpartum (after birth) mood disorders can appear during any pregnancy or with the adoption of a baby. These feelings can be mild or intense and are caused by:
- less sleep
- hormonal changes
- physical changes of pregnancy and birth
- adjusting to having a new baby to care for
Postpartum or "Baby Blues"
- affect 30-75% of women
- the blues tend to appear in the first few hours to days after birth and usually do not last longer than 2 weeks
- in some cases women's symptoms worsen and become depression
Symptoms of Postpartum Mood Disorders
- feeling low,sad, empty or tearful
- loss of interest/pleasure in activities
- changes in appetite
- hearing voices
- feeling tired/concentration problems
- recurring thoughts and fears about harm coming to baby, family or self
- feelings of worthlesness or guilt
- not being able to sleep when the baby sleeps or no need to sleep
- disturbing thoughts and images that are upsetting and frightening
- feeling helpless and overwhelmed
- feeling like you are "crazy"
If any of this sounds like you, you're not alone
You don't have to suffer in silence
You don't have to be afraid
Help is available!
Information & Support for City of Thunder Bay
If you or someone you know is having symptoms of postpartum mood disorders and need more information call:
24-hour Crisis Response Service Canadian Mental Health Association:
Thunder Bay 346-8282 Toll free 1-888-269-3100
More Postpartum Depression Services in Thunder Bay
"Beyond the Baby Blues" Postpartum Depression and Anxiety Support Group
The support group provides an opportunity for women to talk about their feelings with other women. They are able to learn about the illness and learn effective ways in which to cope.
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Ontario Early Years Centre
Northwood Mall
(fourth Monday of the month
1:00-3:00pm) |
Hilldale Lutheran Church
321 Hilldale Road
(second Wednesday the month
1:00-3:00pm) |
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September 24 |
September 12 |
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October 22 |
October 10 |
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November 26 |
November 14 |
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December 17 |
December 12 |
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January 28 |
January 9 |
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February 25 |
February 13 |
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March 31 |
March 19 |
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April 28 |
April 9 |
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May 26 |
May 14 |
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June 23 |
June 11 |
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July 28 |
Closed |
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August 25 |
Closed |
Free childcare available for children 0-6 yrs!
For information, referral or registration call 625-5972
Information and Support for the District of Thunder Bay
North of Superior Mental Health Services
Geraldton: 854-1321
Longlac: 876-2235
Manitouwadge: 826-4517
Marathon: 229-0607
Nipigon: 887-2632
Schreiber: 824-2867
Terrace Bay: 824-3238
More Postpartum Depression Services in the District
What Can You Do?
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Rest when the baby sleeps
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Try to follow a simple Daily Routine
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Ask For Help-don't try to do it all yourself
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Choose one or two chores a day
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Take Care of Yourself-shower and dress each day
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Take Time For Yourself- go out for a walk, meet a friend, talk with other mothers
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Talk About How You Feel to people you are comfortable with
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Play and Enjoy the Good Moments with your baby
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Give Yourself a Pat on the Back-adjusting to motherhood is hard work
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Consider individual counselling
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Consider medication options
If you have signs of postpartum depression or anxiety, reach out.
Tell your health care provider!
Diagnosis and treatment are the keys to recovery!
Other Links
The Pacific Postpartum Society
Postpartum Support International
Pregnancy and Postpartum Depression