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/