You might be hearing a lot about PMADs (or Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders) right now due to recent events in the news. PMADs are the leading complication of pregnancy and yet they have been mostly ignored and only the most extreme cases are talked about, even though at least 1 in 10 fathers and 1 in 5 mothers will experience a PMAD. The good news is that PMADs are highly treatable and with the right help, you will be well!

Most new parents know sleep is going to be difficult in the initial postpartum phase, but did you know there are some simple steps you and your partner can take to mitigate risks to your health and overall functioning? Read on for the science behind fascinating brain changes during motherhood, and some simple plans you can make to improve your sleep.

Coping tips for a difficult birth or pregnancy, by Erica Langer, Psy.D.

There isn’t enough support for mothers (or parents really!) in this country. Whether we are talking about government policies, paid maternity leave, emotional understanding, or community - it’s all part of the same systemic lack of support. Everywhere you look, you will see reasons why moms feel so stressed: the stay at home mother whose work isn’t valued, the boss who sees maternity leave as a nuisance, even the way friends sometimes don’t know how to offer support and stay quiet.