Maternal Mental Health Resources for Pregnant and Postpartum Moms

BayCare provides exceptional maternity care during pre- and post-birth to over 15,000 women annually – more than anyone else in Tampa Bay.  

The arrival of a baby brings a variety of powerful emotions, from excitement and joy to anxiety and fear. For some mothers, it also can result in something unexpected – depression. While parenthood can oftentimes feel like a solitary journey, it’s important for new moms to know that they are not alone. Since 2010, BayCare has provided resources and support to mothers currently pregnant and after pregnancy through phone consultations, on-campus support groups and education outreach.   
 
“While it’s not uncommon for new moms to experience a mild case of the ‘baby blues’ after childbirth, some women experience the more severe, long-lasting condition of postpartum depression or a related condition,” said Richelle Anderson, manager of Hospital Care Coordination and Family Support Services for BayCare and a licensed clinical social worker. “In fact, research shows that one in seven women may experience depression during pregnancy and one in five women will experience a maternal mental health disorder, like postpartum depression.”  
  
Anderson adds that symptoms of a maternal mood disorder include crying, sadness, hopelessness, irritability, anger, excessive worries, feelings of guilt, appetite disturbance, sleep disturbances, racing thoughts, and scary and unwanted thoughts. 
  
To help new moms struggling to navigate motherhood, BayCare hosts in-person and virtual group sessions as well as in-person and telehealth individual therapy. All resources are free and available to anyone who may be experiencing depression or anxiety during or after pregnancy. More information on options are listed below.  

“Mental health during pregnancy and after is simply not talked about enough, and we often find that when someone decides to reach out for extra support, they have been struggling for weeks or months,” said Anderson. “If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression or anxiety during or after pregnancy, don’t wait to seek help. These programs have helped many women and families restore balance, adjust to their new normal, and bring awareness to the prevalence of perinatal mood disorders.” 

Supporting Motherhood and More Group  
This support group is for women who are experiencing unexpected and difficult emotions during pregnancy and throughout the first year of their baby’s life. This group may be for you if: 

• You feel overwhelmed 
• You feel irritated, angry, or resentful of your baby, your partner, or your friends 
• You worry that if you reach out for help, people will judge you 
• You wonder if you were supposed to be a mother in the first place 

To sign up for an upcoming Supporting Motherhood and More session, click here.   

Life After Childbirth  
Life After Childbirth is a group designed for women who are currently pregnant or have delivered up to one year ago. If you’re facing challenges adapting to everyday life, adjusting to new roles, or struggling with the expectations of motherhood and/or breastfeeding, this group can help. An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant is present at group sessions to address breastfeeding struggles, answer questions and offer tips and tricks specific to your needs. You can expect to:

• Build support by connecting with other women
• Share your experience in a judgment-free zone
• Talk about the emotional adjustment through pregnancy and motherhood
• Gain self-care skills

To sign up for an upcoming Life After Childbirth session, click here.   

Telephonic Support
One of BayCare’s highly qualified perinatal counselors will call and check in with you weekly, biweekly, or monthly based on your need. They will provide non-judgmental support, encouragement, and resources, and can connect you with other mothers to help build your support network.

Individual Therapy 
Have you thought about seeking out counseling? Are there barriers preventing you from getting the help you want? You could qualify to receive free telehealth therapy services from the comfort of your own home at a day and time that work for you. Our virtual individual therapy program is offered through a secured network system and lasts 12-16 weeks. Your baby can be present during the 50-minute session. A hybrid model that includes in-person sessions is also an option. 

For more information on BayCare’s maternal mental health resources or to sign up for telephonic support or individual therapy, please call (813) 872-3925 in Hillsborough County or (727) 462-3200 in Pinellas County. You can also email PerinatalSupportServices@BayCare.org.