Circle of Support
Postpartum Group for Moms

The Circle of Support program was established to support moms (not just first-time moms) after the birth of a child.  Often moms suffer in silence; however, offering a circle of support can help in alleviating isolation and provide the opportunity to connect in a safe and non-judgmental environment with other mothers.  In addition, the group offers guidance, coping skills, stress management tools, peer to peer dialogue, understanding of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and communal encouragement while normalizing the transition into motherhood.  The group is facilitated by maternal mental health advocate and mom, Danielle B. Foster, MSW who is trained in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders via Postpartum Support International.

Who: Moms following birth of a child

When: 2023 dates:

  • January 5
  • January 19
  • February 2
  • February 16
  • March 2
  • March 23
  • April 6
  • April 20
  • May 4
  • May 8
  • June 1
  • June 22
  • July 6
  • July 20
  • August 3
  • August 17
  • September 7
  • September 21
  • October 5
  • October 19
  • November 2
  • November 16
  • December 7
  • December 21

Where: The Parlor, the campus of SPUMC (entrance near basketball court)

Time: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.

Attendance: Free (must register here)  Refreshments Served.

Childcare: Free (must register here)

 

What to Expect:

In this open format group we will discuss many things moms often experience after childbirth such as but not limited to: stress, excessive worries, difficulty adjusting, sadness, depression, anxiety, fearfulness, guilt, shame, perfectionism, overwhelming thoughts, and difficulty sleeping.

In addition to connecting with others, moms can expect to learn and enhance coping skills, relaxation techniques, stress management methods, and discussion of various topics.

 

Why Circle of Support:

Women are more at risk of experiencing emotional difficulties following the birth of their baby more than any other time in their lives.  Postpartum distress can impact up to 20% of new mothers and can occur any time during the first year, and even beyond that first year, after having a baby.  Having a safe space to discuss these feelings can help in meaningful and powerful ways.

The Circle of Support Group provides an opportunity and a place to talk about both the expectations of motherhood and one’s actual experiences. Often there is a big gap between those two, and this group can help a mom have empathy for any feelings of disappointment or otherwise she may be experiencing.

For More Information, contact Circle of Support Facilitator Danielle B. Foster, MSW at [email protected].