PPSM Baby Brain; Emotional Wellness in Pregnancy, Postpartum and Parenting
Pregnancy and Postpartum Support Minnesota is a non profit organization that helps people struggling with mental health issues during the perinatal time by awareness, advocacy, education and connection to treatment. Pregnancy & Postpartum Support MN began in 2006 when Suzanne Swanson, PhD, a St. Paul psychologist, formed the group with other area mental health professionals with a passion for helping moms and families. The group created the first resource list specific to perinatal mental health. All providers on this list are vetted by the Board, and required to demonstrate education and experience treating pregnant and postpartum parents, and many also have additional competency with related topics, such as perinatal loss, infertility, and trauma. In 2015, PPSM became the Minnesota State Chapter with Postpartum Support International. We are proud to be the 5th State Chapter in the country, and further build our relationship with PSI! This podcast channel is bringing thought leaders, providers, and community members together to talk about perinatal mental health. Mood changes and mental health issues surrounding pregnancy, postpartum and parenting. Your host: Lindsey Hanka MN, RN, PHN has been a part of the team at PPSM since 2020. Her roles within PPSM include peer support mentor, member of the PPSM Radhika Lal Snyder Postpartum Doula Program selection committee, current Helpline Lead, and PPSM Podcast Host.
PPSM Baby Brain; Emotional Wellness in Pregnancy, Postpartum and Parenting
Postpartum Anxiety and supporting the NICU population Jenna Hoelz, OTR/L (Occupational Therapist)
In this episode, Lindsey and Jenna discuss the road to postpartum anxiety recovery, Jenna shares her work as a Occupational Therapist in the NICU and offers great insight on how to support families who have a child in the NICU.
Jenna is a mom of 3 and suffered from postpartum anxiety and depression. Throughout Jenna's recovery she attended virtual support groups through PPSM and utilized the peer support program.
Jenna works full time in the NICU as an occupational therapist. She is certified in neonatal touch and massage, is a feeding specialist and specialized in developmental care. She has a specific interest in supporting families to bond with and become a strong advocate for their baby and family in the NICU. She loves supporting the mental health of parents and helping them feel more competent in caring for their baby and celebrate all the small and big wins in the NICU. Jenna can be found on instagram at @theanxioushobbyist and @thenicutherapist
From Jenna:"Taking the first step, to get help and access resources available to your during your mental health journey, is the hardest part but it is so worth it. I never thought I'd attend a support group, utilize a peer support person or openly share my story but it ended up being some of the best things I've ever done in my life. I am so thankful I had the courage to take that first hard step but it has been so worth it."