Wednesday, February 16, 2011

10 Celebrities Who Battled Postpartum Depression - depression - Health.com

Yes, even with nannies, personal assistants for their personal assistants, personal trainers and never-ending Starbucks supply, they can get it too. Must be something to this REAL ILLNESS thing.

10 Celebrities Who Battled Postpartum Depression - depression - Health.com

It’s okay to reach out for help.That’s why we’re here. http://www.poemonline.org/

Monday, February 14, 2011

You're Amazing.

I certainly know this isn't the way Bruno Mars meant it, but when I heard this song on the radio this morning...



I thought of our POEM moms.
So many of you feel like you're doing things wrong. Like there's One Right Way to parent. But your symptoms - of a perinatal mood/anxiety disorder - hide the truth that there is no perfect. If you are trying, you are perfect. "If perfect's what you're seaching for, than just stay the same," he sings.

When you're suffering from anxiety, depression, strange thoughts, you sure don't feel amazing. Anything but. But those symptoms have nothing to do with your beauty. I see you with your babies at group, and I hear your hurt --but I see the love for your child. I see that you're trying so hard. And it is amazing, your strength and courage. In another line, Bruno croons "It's so sad to think that she don't see what I see," and I wish that you could see the beautiful mother that I see.

Thursday, February 10, 2011

The MOMologues

Valentine's Day made easy. (for your sweetheart)

Tickets to The MOMologues make the perfect Valentine gift.

This hilarious production features local moms & celebrities including Ellie Merritt of NBC4 and Ann Fisher of WOSU.

Ticket proceeds help POEM support moms & families in our community and across the state.

Click HERE for more about the show.

Click HERE for tickets - on sale February 12.

original play written by L. Rafferty, S. Cloutier & S. Eppolito
Produced by special arrangement with Samuel French Inc.

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

February Meeting Dates and Tips for Feeling Better

In February, we celebrate Valentine's Day and National Heart Month. Take heart if you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious and/or depressed. POEM (Perinatal Outreach and Encouragement for Moms) is here to help. Plan to attend a support group meeting in February:

10 a.m., Saturday, February 12

or

7 p.m., Tuesday, February 22

Also, show yourself some"love" by trying these 10 tips for feeling better.

1. Let others know what they can do to help. Allow a friend to pick up a few items for you at the grocery store. Let Grandma or an older neighbor who just loves to hold babies come over and rock the baby. If you have other children, seek out play dates and offer to take turns.

2. Screen phone calls. Let the answering machine pick up and/or send all calls to voicemail. Too often, especially during the day and early evening hours, many calls are simply solicitations.

3. Allow yourself a moment to laugh. Rent a comedy or watch cartoons you enjoyed as a child.

4. Eat well. Make readily available healthy choices that are quick and convenient: bananas, pre-cut veggies, nuts and bottled water are a good start.

5. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. When you are tired and stressed, caffeine and/or a good, stiff drink are very tempting, but fight the urge. Try herbal tea or flavored water instead.

6. Take a walk. This is easier said than done, especially during these long, winter months. Nevertheless, consider walking at an indoor shopping mall or local recreation center. And on those rare, yet wonderful, days when the sun is out and the temperatures are moderate, bundle up the baby and you and head outside.

7. Get out of the house. Even when this feels like a chore, push yourself to meet a friend for lunch or vist a local library.

8. Confide in someone you trust. Whether you seek professional support or talk to a trusted friend, discussing your feelings and emotions in a safe environment will help.

9. If on medication, take it as prescribed. If the medication you are taking doesn't seem to be working, ask your health care provider about other options.

10. Cut yourself some slack. Motherhood is daunting, even under ideal circumstances. Celebrate successes, big and small, and know that less than perfect is perfectly okay.

It’s okay to reach out for help.That’s why we’re here. http://www.poemonline.org/