Supporting Motherhood and More

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a common medical condition. Approximately 70% to 80% of women will experience, at a minimum, the “baby blues.” Many of these women will experience the more severe condition of postpartum depression or a related condition. The reported rate of clinical postpartum depression among new mothers is between 10% to 20%. One recent study found 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.

BayCare Community Support Groups

Parenthood can oftentimes feel like a solitary journey, but it’s important to know that you’re not alone. Since 2010, BayCare has provided resources and support to mothers currently pregnant and after pregnancy through phone consultations, on-campus support groups, virtual support groups, and education outreach. Services are offered in both Hillsborough and Pinellas County and all resources are free and available to anyone who may be experiencing depression during or after pregnancy. Services are available in both Spanish and English. 

Current Services:

Supporting Motherhood and More Group 
Being a mother is one of the hardest jobs to do and struggling with mental health can make that hard job seem impossible. Adjusting to motherhood can be overwhelming, especially if you’re experiencing stress, baby blues, postpartum depression, or anxiety. You’re not alone! 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, like “I can’t do this.”
• 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.

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. A trained Lactation Specialist is present at group sessions to address breastfeeding struggles and tips and tricks. 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

Telephonic Support
One of our qualified perinatal support specialists 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.