Susan is a mother of 2 and experienced depression after the birth of her 1st child and again in her current postpartum period. She has struggled with depression for most of her life… During a support group, Susan mentioned that her doctor suggested medication but she is worried about becoming addicted. She doesn't believe in… Continue reading Postpartum depression & anxiety: Do I need medication?
Author: Michelle Sipley R.N.
I am a Public Health Nurse with 20 years experience at the City of Toronto. My role is focused on increasing awareness of maternal mental health through social media, and capacity building with community groups and individuals. I provide training to public health nurses and service to affected women. Our mantra is "You are not alone, there is help, you will get better".
Have you thought about your circle of support?
Whether you are expecting your first baby, or your fourth baby, all expectant parents and their partners need support. Support comes in many forms, anywhere from the support you receive from friends to the support you may find in books or on-line. 4 areas of support are: Day-to-day help – this is the practical help… Continue reading Have you thought about your circle of support?
Just had a baby? Having unwanted or scary thoughts?
You just had a baby and you're having thoughts that are scaring you. They're repeating thoughts or images that don't make any sense. They could be of bad things happening or harm coming to you or your baby. You're wondering, why would I think of such a thing? Am I going crazy? YOU are not your… Continue reading Just had a baby? Having unwanted or scary thoughts?
For Dads: Paternal postpartum depression – it’s real
Becoming a new dad can be an exciting and challenging time in your life. Many changes happen within a family after having a baby. In this new role, you are trying to figure out how to take care of the baby, your partner, and other responsibilities. The first few months can be the toughest. The… Continue reading For Dads: Paternal postpartum depression – it’s real
Postpartum Depression: You didn’t cause this to happen
As a public health nurse I speak to many parents struggling with their adjustment to being a new parent. They experience many different feelings, ranging from joy and excitement to guilt and sadness. Sometimes these feelings become so difficult that they start to feel overwhelmed and helpless. Many times it is the partner who is… Continue reading Postpartum Depression: You didn’t cause this to happen
New to Canada? Feeling lost and alone?
Fatima, who immigrated to Canada six months ago, is a new mother of a 3 month old baby girl. Fatima and her husband are both faced with the stress of settling into a new place, trying to understand a new language, the health care system, and are feeling overwhelmed. She knows the baby needs medical… Continue reading New to Canada? Feeling lost and alone?
Pregnant and feeling tired or irritable? 8 tips to help you feel better
Are you in your third trimester of pregnancy, feeling tired and full of worry? Do you snap at your partner for little things and rarely laugh or have fun with family and friends? Are you having trouble sleeping and don't feel yourself? Are you struggling to find your way? Many women feel this way during pregnancy. Right… Continue reading Pregnant and feeling tired or irritable? 8 tips to help you feel better
Postpartum depression – Will it happen to me?
Is it possible to beat postpartum depression? As a Public Health Nurse, I support women struggling with emotional health issues such as depression and anxiety. Imagine that you are pregnant and experiencing mixed feelings. Part of you is happy, while the other part is feeling unsure. You've always wanted a baby but you are concerned… Continue reading Postpartum depression – Will it happen to me?