Let’s face it, being a new parent isn’t nearly as easy as we’d like to think it would be.
Whether you’re dealing with postpartum depression or simply can’t get your baby to sleep, it’s really important for families to get some support. If you find yourself needing some help, please take advantage of the following resources.
New Parent Support Numbers
- Postpartum International – This helpful resource has support groups, loss and grief help, and a phone number that you can call or text anytime: 1-800-944-4773.
- Motherhood Center of New York – This organization offers the Motherhood Day Program, counseling, and education and support groups. They also offer online webinars. Call 212-335-0034 to set up an appointment.
- Zocdoc – As one of the easiest ways to find a doctor, Zocdoc can also help you find a psychiatrist. Simply enter your insurance information and gain access to every professional in your area.
- Family Equality – This is one of the best ways for same-sex parents to find support groups in their local area. Additionally, they have tons of info for parents-to-be.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – You may need someone to talk to in an emergency. It doesn’t matter if you’re suicidal or just want to walk away from your child. Reach out for help 24/7 by texting NAMI to 741741.
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – Developing a substance abuse problem is surprisingly common, especially when you’re trying to stay awake for your baby. Reach out for confidential help 24/7 by calling 1-800-662-HELP.
- Warmlines – For when you don’t consider yourself to be in a crisis, but you sure could use someone to talk to. Click the link to find a warmline in your state.
- Mental Health America – Sometimes, you really need someone to talk to. You can call Mental Health American 24/7 at 1-800-985-5990. Or, if you’re in a crisis, call 1-800-273-TALK.
Online Resources For Families
- Child Development Institute – Their mission is to be a “go-to” resource for parenting information from child development to family activities.
- Kelly Mom – Tons of online parenting articles with a heavy emphasis on breastfeeding.
- HealthyChildren.org – This is a great online parenting resource maintained by the American Academy of Pediatrics with parenting articles ranging from Prenatal to Young Adult. They also offer parenting webinars on various useful topics to parents.
- Live Another Day – Extensive information on mental health and substance use resources for People of Color. Their mission is equal access to life-saving resources.
- Detox Local – An excellent resource that features abundant information including mental health and substance use resources specifically for the American Asian and Pacific Islander community.
These are merely a few of the resources available to new parents.
Remember: when you’re feeling down, help is just a call away! Don’t be afraid to reach out for help when you need it most. Doing so doesn’t make you a bad mom. Instead, it’s an investment in your future and the future health of your baby.
