Maternal Mental Illness and the Criminal Justice System

        "The Law Book With Gravel" by cooldesign

Postpartum Support International will be presenting a program titled Maternal Mental Illness and the Criminal Justice System on October 23, 2015 in Cedar Knolls, New Jersey. 

While many other countries have laws in place recognizing the existence of perinatal mood & anxiety disorders and their relevance in rare cases of a mother harming her child(ren), the US legal system does not yet have an understanding of these illnesses.  This program is a step towards bringing better understanding. 

I encourage attendance of this very important educational seminar for anyone involved in the legal system or anyone interested in learning more about maternal mental illness and the criminal justice system.   I have included more information and the link for registration below.

Maternal Mental Illness and the Criminal Justice System
October 23, 2015

41 Ridgedale Avenue, Cedar Knolls NJ 07927   
Presented by Postpartum Support International

Thurs Oct 22, 7:00pm -- Dinner and Remarks by George Parnham, JD

Fri Oct 23, 8:30-5:00 -- Maternal Mental Illness and the Criminal Justice System

Postpartum Support International presents “Maternal Mental Illness and the Criminal Justice System” in Cedar Knolls New Jersey on Friday October 23.

Attorney George Parnham,  Psychiatrist Margaret Spinelli, MD, and an expert team of faculty present this premier seminar designed for professionals interested in the defense and treatment of women accused of crimes that occurred during a postpartum psychiatric mental illness.

Please join us Thursday night to enjoy remarks by George Parnham, JD and a spectacular dinner by H2Ocean Restaurant, hosted by owners Michael & Sylvia Frodella.

Link to registration https://www.eventbrite.com/e/maternal-mental-illness-and-the-criminal-justice-system-registration-17945396163

A Time to Grieve

This past month has been a difficult one for me.  My eldest sister, Kathleen, recently passed away.  She lost her battle with cancer on August 4th.  She was an amazing woman.  I looked up to her as my big sister. She was a retired reading specialist and businesswoman with a zest for life.  She had great dedication to her family.  

Losing a loved one is never easy.  Everyone has to grieve when a loved one dies but the process is different for each person.  Thankfully, it was only in the last month that she had a tremendous struggle in her battle.  Since she did not live in close proximity to me, I didn't get to spend as much time with her as I would have liked.  Despite the geographical distance, her love and strength were always with me. 

Although I did not arrive in time for her passing, I have reassurance from loved ones, who were with her in the end, that she had a prayerful and peaceful transition.  Because of my faith, the faith of my sister, Kathleen, and the faith of my family, I have a peace that I would not have otherwise.  Although the grieving continues, I will cherish the memories and the love that will forever be with me. 

As difficult as it is, grief is a part of life that we all face at some point.  Regardless of the circumstances, we must accept it.  I am thankful that I am able to have peace in the midst of the tears.

Honored to Have Presented at the 2015 CAPPA Conference

It was an honor and privilege to have presented at the 2015 CAPPA conference that was held July 10th through the 12th in Tucson, Arizona.  The location was beautiful.  When I became certified as a postpartum doula in the early 2000's, it was through CAPPA that I became certified.  It is wonderful to see how much the organization has grown and developed.  Although I no longer practice as a postpartum doula, I still feel very much a part of CAPPA.  I got to see some of the amazing professionals that I knew all those years ago and got to meet even more amazing professionals at the conference.  The atmosphere was warm and inviting.  It felt like a family reunion.

I was humbled by the response I received after my presentation.  It is always encouraging to hear how sharing my story impacts others in a positive and motivating way.  The reason I do what I do is to help increase awareness and prevention in the area of mental health related to childbearing, particularly in the area of postpartum psychosis .  My mission is to bring hope and inspiration to others so I am extremely thankful when I hear from others that my presentation did exactly that for them.  Thank you, CAPPA, for the wonderful experience and I plan to see everyone again in 2016.

The 28th Annual PSI Conference was a Life-Changing Experience

I recently had the opportunity to attend the 28th Annual Conference for Postpartum Support International.  The conference was held at the beautiful Inn at St. John's in Plymouth, Michigan.  The theme was Planting seeds of hope: overcoming stigma, increasing options and embracing innovative treatments.  The conference accomplished its goal.

One of the pivotal moments for me was participating in the first ever support group for those touched by postpartum psychosis.  I was honored to be able to experience such a special moment.  There are amazing things to come out of the support group so stay tuned.....

I was also honored to be a presenter at this year's conference.  It was wonderful seeing my PSI family, some whom I have known for years and some new to me.  I will never forget the experience and I am grateful to have been a part of it.

Now off to Arizona for the CAPPA conference :)

Facilitating My First Leadership Academy was a Successful Experience

This past weekend, I co-facilitated a Leadership Academy for the first time.  It was a great experience. The Leadership Academy is an exemplary training program designed for peer, family and parent leaders in mental health recovery.  The Academy is an educational training program for those who are eager to strengthen their leadership, networking and advocacy skills. 

The Academy focuses on creating system and community changes through collective self-determination, which exemplifies empowerment.  I originally attended the Academy myself back in May 2013 and completed the train the trainer program in October 2013. 

Due to funding, the Florida Academies were delayed until recently.  So, FINALLY, this past weekend, my co-facilitator, Laura Gribble, and I conducted the first Leadership Academy in our region.  We had a great group of individuals, who participated in the three-day training.  The participants want to make a difference in their lives and the lives of others.  

The Leadership Academy began in Idaho in an effort to increase consumer involvement within the behavioral health system and communities.  The program expanded and in May 2013, the first Florida Leadership Academy was held.  The Florida Leadership Academy is sponsored by CLEAR (Connecting Leadership, Education, Advocacy and Recovery), a statewide program of NAMI of Collier County and the state of Florida's Department of Children and Families, who overseas mental health services in the state of Florida.

Despite being a little "rusty" on the material since it was 2 years ago since I attended the original academy, the weekend training went well.  Laura and I successfully graduated 12 individuals, who are now going to be even more effective in advocacy within their communities.  I am honored to have been a part of the training and I look forward to co-facilitating the next one.

Excited to Launch My New Website

I am excited to announce the launch of my new website.  I am very pleased with the final site.  For those of you that have not reviewed it yet, please do so.  I would love your feedback. 

Here is the link to the site:  http://www.jenniferhmoyer.com/

You can now find information on my book, A Mother's Climb Out of Darkness, directly on the new site.  For those of you interested in having me come speak to your organization or in your community, you can contact me by filling out the contact form on my website.  Also, if you are a mom or family member in need of emotional or informational support, please contact me through my website.

I believe the new site will help me better achieve my mission of bringing hope and inspiration to individuals and families facing mental health challenges.  Look forward to hearing from you.

I Learned on My Trip to Malta that the Country Addresses Maternal Mental Health

April 14, 2015

I recently had the opportunity to visit the country of Malta.  Malta is a beautiful Island located South of Italy in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea.  Before my trip, I learned from Wendy Davis, the Executive Director of Postpartum Support International, that there was a Perinatal Psychiatrist in Malta.  Wendy was able to connect the two of us via email. As a result the doctor and I were able to meet one evening while I was in Malta.

It was wonderful meeting Dr. Ethel Felice as well as her lovely daughter, Elena, who also works in the area of perinatal mental health as a psychology assistant.  According to Dr. Felice, the annual birth rate in Malta is about 4,000 births.  Even though Malta is a small country, it is addressing perinatal mental health including the rare cases of postpartum psychosis. I am encouraged to learn that moms and dads have properly trained professional resources available to them.  They are also planning to start a support group sometime in the future.

Ethel and Elena were both appreciative that I donated a copy of my book, A Mother’s Climb Out of Darkness, as a resource for them as well as for moms and families.  It is exciting to have a copy of my book in Malta and I hope it encourages all that read it.  My trip to Malta has been a memorable experience for many reasons.  One of the best memories will be meeting Ethel and Elena.

Stigma is Real and Stigma.com is Making a Difference

March 2, 2015

Congratulations to Stigmama.com! The website is celebrating its one year anniversary.  Walker Karraa, PhD began the site because she believes in the power of women, especially those who have been touched by mental illness or mental difference, to create change.

According to Walker, “We are different. We see what others don’t, write what others won’t, and give beauty to the deepest experiences of motherhood and the human soul.”

STIGMAMA was created for mothers of all ages to speak their truths in a non judgmental, supportive, creative community. Walker wants women to share wisdom and support each other in unpacking stigma of mental difference in motherhood.

I commend Dr. Karraa and the awesome contributors for their efforts in stamping out stigma.  Stigma is real and we all can do our part to help eliminate it.

This InLinkz account has expired. You can still view the linkup here

Honored that NAMI has Reviewed My Book, A Mother's Climb Out of Darkness

February 6, 2015

Thank you, NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), for recently reviewing my book, A Mother’s Climb Out of Darkness.  I am truly honored.  I have provided an excerpt and link to the entire review below:

In America, after a woman goes through childbirth, there is often a strong focus on her physical well-being, but the state of her mental and emotional health may be overlooked. In light of recovering physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, Jennifer Hentz Moyer shares her experience with post-partum psychosis in her memoir A Mother’s Climb Out of Darkness. – See More

If you haven’t had a chance to read my book, I hope you will consider doing so as I have been receiving encouraging feedback from those that have read it.

Here are links to more reviews:

Amazon Reviews

Goodreads

The Importance of Support in Crisis Plan

January 20, 2015

As we begin a new year, it is important that we look ahead but also that we learn from the past.  I, personally, know the importance of support in a crisis.  In the past, I have had many a crisis but thankfully, I now have knowledge that I did not have back then.

Back in October 2013, I was trained on the SAMSHA approved WRAP (wellness recovery action planning), which enabled me to develop a formal plan that would be used in my recovery management.  I was waiting for my husband to return from his overseas job in November 2013, in order to finalize the crisis portion of the plan.  It was a busy six weeks while he was home, so we never got to complete it.  He had to return to work but all was well so I put it aside until had time to complete it.  In March 2014, I had a situation arise when I was meeting the deadline for my manuscript, for my recently published book A Mother’s Climb Out of Darkness.  It was positive stress but anytime I experience sleep deprivation, I am vulnerable to developing further symptoms.  In March 2014, the situation ultimately leveled out once my sleep pattern was restored.

As a result of March 2014, I knew I needed to make the completion of my WRAP plan a priority but again, the schedule did not allow for me to sit down with key support people (there will be 5 in total) to finalize the plan.

Fast forward to December 2014.  Again, I had some positive stress that caused sleep deprivation but this time I also had some concern when I was under the impression that my husband did not have a way to communicate in case of an emergency (via Satellite Phone) in his current work location.  There were also some time-consuming issues (health insurance related as well as an incidence of credit card fraud on one of my cards) that contributed to my having a serious crying spell.  My amazing son had not seen his mom have such a crying spell in recent years.  He was unaware that I had already contacted my therapist.  He began to reach out for help.  This began the cycle of all that happened.  My son did the best he could under the circumstances but as a 19 year old he is still learning.

I will not get into all of the details of what transpired after that but ultimately, some individuals that were attempting to help me, did not realize the full extent of the situation.  Nor did they understand that my doctor had communicated with me and I was following her course of treatment. Unfortunately, I did not get the opportunity to DIRECTLY speak with her as I did back in March 2013.  So she initially did not understand that the sleep deprivation was a contributing factor and had become severe. But as back in March 2014, once the medication to address it was prescribed, I began to sleep for 8 hours, which is essential for me especially during times of stress.

Unfortunately, due to the lack of DIRECT communication with me, some individuals believed I was psychotic and in need of hospitalization.  Hospitalization is the LAST resort in my case due to PTSD (post-traumatic stress symptoms I have surrounding past hospitalizations). My doctor is aware of my wishes but due to the indirect information she was receiving, she did not get the entire picture.  Sadly, due to the fact that some involved made assumptions and did not communicate properly with me, the erroneous belief that I needed to be forcibly hospitalized evolved (FL Baker Act law require suicidal, homicidal or complete inability for self-care).  This was not the case but again with out direct communication with the me, the patient, how would one know?

Thankfully, as Florida law does allow, I was able to request voluntary evaluation at the facility that I have requested to use if hospitalization is ever necessary.  Because I was properly evaluated and screened, I was released on my own accord.  Thank God my brother came in to town because he was the only one that has known me for my entire life so he had a perspective that others did not.  My final discharge was on my own accord and to return, if future symptoms.  Symptoms that subsided once my sleep was regulated.

It is important to understand the importance of your support people.  I recognize that some have no family but we can make our family and reach out to friends, professionals or anyone we want to be involved in our treatment and recovery.

I have finalized my WRAP plan and the 5 support people I named (who will have to agree to be one) will receive a copy as well as my therapist and doctors.  In the state of Florida, in order to have a legalized document, I have to name one person to be my patient representative, who oversees the crisis portion of the plan along with the support individuals.  I can also provide copies to any of my friends or family that would like to have one for future reference.  But keep in mind for those individuals it is for informational purposes only and only the named support individuals will have decision-making authority.

We are human and sometimes people forget the most important person involved in the situation. the person going through the crisis.  Wellness and recovery are possible but we can not do it alone.

Many Blessings to you in 2015 and in the years to come.

Jennifer

Interview with Colby and Amanda Taylor on their Postpartum Psychosis Experience

December 5, 2014

This month I am sharing an interview with Colby and Amanda Taylor on their Postpartum Psychosis experience.  This couple is sharing their experience publicly in order to help others.  Thank you Colby and Amanda for your willingness to share.

1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

Colby: I am 34 years old and recently left the ministry of Young Life where I was involved for nearly 10 years. I am originally from Kansas and graduated from Kansas State University. I enjoy working out, spending time with my family and investing in the lives of others.

Amanda: I am 29 years old and have been married for 8 years. We have four kids, ages 5, 4, 2, and 1 (one girl and 3 boys). Some of the things I like to do are go running, read a book, mail gifts to others, play with the kids, and go on date nights with the hubs.

2. How did you first learn about postpartum psychosis?

Colby: Amanda was diagnosed with postpartum psychosis last year and had 2 stints in a Psychiatric hospital. It was while waiting in the ER that I first learned about PPP through a friend who had looked it up online.

Amanda: I had never even heard of postpartum psychosis until the doctor diagnosed me with it in March 2013. I was in the mental hospital for 7 days after the birth of our fourth child, and that is when I first heard what PPP was.

3. Since you both have different perspectives, in your own words, briefly share about the onset of your postpartum psychosis experience?

Colby: It was after the birth of our 4th son. She began exhibiting manic behavior and becoming very agitated and angry. The day I took her to the ER she had been missing for over 6 hours and when found she was in the process of buying 2 cars and a house.

Amanda: It was 12 days after our fourth child was born. It was a Tuesday. I hadn’t slept in 8 days. I was full of energy, overly happy; everything was perfect (otherwise known as manic- in my situation). I left the house and felt like God was leading me to buy a house and two new cars, so I didn’t tell Colby because I was going to surprise him. I spent $8,000 in 6 days, all without telling my husband. I became violent and angry. Something was not right.

4. What did you find the most challenging in getting the help you needed?

Colby: There is not a lot of information about postpartum psychosis out there. No one knew exactly where to go or what was going on, even the medical professionals seemed very vague as to her condition. Getting answers was probably one of the hardest parts of this.

Amanda: I felt very isolated in the Psychiatric hospital. No one knew what to do with me. I just had a baby 12 days prior, and they almost didn’t let me bring my personal breast pump in my hospital room. I was in the same room with schizophrenia patients and patients that tried to commit suicide and my situation was 100% different but I feel like they just clumped me in with the others.

5. What is the one thing that helped you the most in dealing with your experience with postpartum psychosis?

Colby: Our relationship with Christ was the most significant in helping us get through. Outside of that learning to ask for help was the most important.

Amanda: Honestly, we could not have gotten through it without the Lord. I was so close to hurting myself and/or the kids. I am so thankful for God’s help and protection. I also am thankful for modern medicine and counseling. Those two helped me greatly.

6. What message would you like to share with families facing postpartum psychosis?

Colby: That you can get through this and that you are not alone. This illness is beatable and we are here to help you get through it. Your marriage is worth fighting for and keeping your family healthy is not impossible. Be transparent and ask for help, surround yourself with a community of believers that will help walk through this with you. Seek professional help for your spouse and for you, be proactive in safe guarding your marriage and family. Don’t be intimidated by doctors or medical professionals. If you feel that you are not getting the answers you need than ask until you do. Pray on your knees every day and seek Christ with all of your heart! Allow God to teach you what true reliance on His strength looks like. Learn to get away and take time for yourself. It is most beneficial to find something to distract your mind from your situation. Allow yourself grace as you will make mistakes and you will learn from them, no one expects you to handle this perfectly and that is ok.

Amanda: It is not a long-term illness. It can be. But it also, doesn’t have to be. 18 months out, I feel like good ol’ normal Amanda. I never thought I would feel normal. It took a little over a year to feel like I was back to normal. I want to tell others to not be afraid to ask for help. I can’t imagine going through this alone. We need help and support from others. Also, don’t be opposed to medicine. Faith is very important to me, but I couldn’t pray my way out of postpartum psychosis. I had to take medicine, seek counseling, and be on top of my healing. Be pro-active. You will make it through! We are here to help with whatever you need!

Thank you, Amanda and Colby Taylor, for this interview and your willingness to reach out to others. Readers can learn more about the Taylors on their website at www.colbyandamandataylor.com

The interview questions are prepared by Jennifer H. Moyer for her website/blog and answers will be published on her website www.jennifermoyer.com with permission from Amanda and Colby Taylor.

Enjoyed Being an Exhibitor at the 2014 Alternatives Conference in Orlando

November 9, 2014

I recently had the opportunity to be an exhibitor at the Alternatives Conference in Orlando, Florida.  The Alternatives Conference is held by the National Mental Health Consumers’ Self-Help Clearinghouse.  The theme of the 28th annual conference was Creating the Future: Change, Challenge, Opportunity.   The conference presenters and attendees are comprised of mental health consumers/survivors.

As an exhibitor, I represented Maternal Mental Health and gave out information on that topic.  I had the privilege of meeting many of the attendees and some of the presenters.  I got to learn from others who are working in the area of mental health as well as hear personal stories of some of the attendees.  It broke my heart to learn that in Ohio there are moms losing their babies just because they have a mental health diagnosis. This is not only discrimination and abuse of agency power but, in my opinion, it seems to be a civil rights violation. The fact that this is occurring shows just how ignorant and misinformed the state’s child welfare agency must be.  I am certain this is happening in more states that Ohio.

Why is the assumption being made that just because a mom has a mental health diagnosis, she is a negligent mother and cannot take care of her baby or child?  Why instead are there not services or resources provided to assist the mother in managing her illness, maintaining stability and overcoming obstacles she may face?  Why is this violation of rights occurring?  How can the brokenness of this system be repaired?  I have to remain hopeful that things can change.

Being an exhibitor at the conference allowed me to meet many wonderful individuals.  Everyone I met contributes or assists others in the area of mental health. They all have a voice that needs to be heard. Just because someone receives a mental health diagnosis, it does not make him or her less important or justify losing individual rights. Those I met have overcome adversity and are productive, resilient individuals despite the challenges that have been faced and that continue to be faced.

The Alternatives Conference was an experience that rejuvenated, encouraged and assured me that I should continue my efforts in advocating in the area of mental health related to childbearing. I hope those advocating in the area of mental health will continue to do so and that many others will join the efforts of speaking up and speaking out for the rights of individuals facing mental health challenges.

My Experience at the International Marce Society Conference in Wales

October 5, 2014

September was an exciting time for me as I took my first overseas trip.  The highlight of my trip was attending the International Marce Society Conference in Wales.  The conference theme was “Creating Change in Perinatal Mental Health.”  It was an honor to meet individuals from all over the world striving to make a difference in the area of perinatal mental health.  The conference objectives were:

1. To promote and gain a greater understanding of behavioural and neuro sciences and the impact on perinatal mental health.
2. Examine the diversity of international interventions and explore the efficacy of these and application to research and practice.
3. Network with colleagues from across the globe to share research ideas, develop practice and enhance existing ideas.
4. Create change in perinatal mental health to ensure every mother and her infant has access to the best possible care.

My experience was that the conference met all these objectives.  For me, I definitely came away with much more knowledge and understanding of perinatal mental health.  The plenary sessions included cutting edge research presented by experts in perinatal mental health.  A few of the symposiums I attended included “Screening and Mood Disorders”, “Bipolar Disorder and Childbirth – Perspectives from around the World” and “Recent developments in Bipolar Disorder and Postpartum Psychosis.”  It was amazing to learn how much is being done in other countries in the area of perinatal mental health.

A highlight of the conference for me was meeting several members of the team involved with the APP (Action Postpartum Psychosis) United Kingdom Network.  The resources, the peer support network and the research opportunities that APP offers are incredible.  My hope is that the organization can serve as a role model for other countries in addressing postpartum psychosis.

Of course, being able to present my poster on Perinatal Mental Health and Advocacy: From Crisis to Contribution was a privilege for me.  As you can see from the photo above, I was excited and proud to be able to participate in a poster session.

The conference encouraged me and motivated me to continue my advocacy efforts in the area of mental health related to childbearing, in particular in increasing awareness and understanding of postpartum psychosis.  The United States has a long way to go but strides have been made and continue to be made.  I am blessed to be able to partake in the efforts now and in the future.

So Excited to be Going to the International Marce Society Conference in Wales

September 7, 2014

I am honored to be able to attend The International Marce Society Conference in Wales this September.  The Marce Society for Perinatal Mental Health is dedicated to supporting research and assistance surrounding prenatal & postpartum mental health for mothers, fathers and their babies.  I am honored to be a member.

This will be my first time attending one of their biennial conferences.  It is an amazing opportunity and a privilege that I will be able to attend.  I am excited about seeing familiar faces.  I am excited about meeting many individuals, who dedicate their efforts to mental health related to childbearing.  I am also excited that the presentation proposal I submitted was accepted as a poster presentation.  I must admit is was a challenge converting an oral presentation into a poster presentation but with some assistance it has been accomplished.  My poster is scheduled to be on display on September 11th.

Although since 2001 September 11th is a solemn day, it always has been and still is a special day of celebration for me because it is my father’s birthday.  This year my World War II pilot dad would be 91 years old.  Although he passed away nearly 6 years ago, he was supportive of my advocacy efforts and would be pleased that they are continuing at an even greater level today.  So as I attend the conference this year, it will be a time of honor and celebration of where I am in my journey as well as a special time of remembrance of my dad.

I look forward to my experience and being able to write about amazing things upon my return.  Stay tuned…

We Must Prevent Tragedies Surrounding Postpartum Psychosis

August 9, 2014

Why do tragedies continue to happen when postpartum psychosis is a preventable and treatable illness that can strike any mother after the birth of a baby?  It has been over 18 years since the onset of postpartum psychosis occurred in my own life and we still have not properly addressed the illness.  This is one of the reasons why I wrote the recently published book, A Mother’s Climb Out of Darkness.

When I was struck with postpartum psychosis at 8 weeks after my baby was born, my family and I had no idea that the illness existed let alone what the symptoms and risks were.  My son was 4 years old when I learned more about postpartum psychosis.  It was then that I became motivated to increase awareness, treatment and prevention of mental illness related to childbearing.

Back in 1996, the internet and technology were not what they are today.  The resources were not available as they are today.  In order to forgive and move on, I had to contribute the way I was treated by the medical and professional community to ignorance.  But that is not a legitimate reason today.

What are the reasons that tragedies surrounding postpartum psychosis continue?  Why are moms still dying by suicide when with the proper care and treatment they can get better?  Why does the media sensationalize the tragedies and rarely address the solution to preventing the tragedies?  I wish I had all the answers to these questions but I do not.  What I do have is my opinion on what can be done to prevent further tragedies.

• Prenatal education and screening for prevention and early detection

• Properly trained and experienced professionals in the area of perinatal mental health
• Community-wide resource networks for prevention, early intervention and proper treatment
• Medical evaluation, counseling, appropriate medication and support must all be addressed in treatment

This all seems easy enough to accomplish so why are we still so far behind? Is maternal mental health not a priority in the United States?  Maybe not but the good news is that there are many, many of us out there doing what we can to prevent these tragedies and work towards achieving what is recommended above.  If we all do our part, even if it is as simple as asking a mom how she is doing and not just focusing on how the baby is doing, more progress can be made. Support and education are critical in prevention.

Every mom holds a critical role in the family and the community.  Let’s take a stand for them and start addressing their mental health needs.

Resources and References:

Postpartum Support International

International Marce Society

The UK Action Postpartum Psychosis Networ

The Book, A Mother's Climb Out of Darkness, was Released in June at the PSI Conference

July 10, 2014

I am honored to say that my book, A Mother’s Climb Out of Darkness published by Praeclarus Press, was released in June at the Annual Postpartum Support International Conference.  It is amazing that my dream has become a reality. The book title, the chapter names and content of the book all came together rather smoothly when I began the project back in 2003.  So when the journey in trying to get the book published began in late 2006, I never imagined it would have been so challenging or that it would have taken so long.

I received many rejections and gave up several times but something would cause it to resurface and I would pursue getting it published once again.  The final attempt led me to Maryann Karinch with The Rudy Agency.  Because Maryann took the time to assist and direct me, the path ultimately led to the book being published.  I am a believer that if something is meant to happen, it will but it may not happen as you expect or in the time frame you would like.  Perseverance is essential as well.

I am grateful that the book now is in the hands of others.  My goal in writing the book is to bring hope and inspiration to others facing challenges whether in the area of mental health or just life, in general.  The message is to not give up and to let others know that there is help, there is hope and you are not alone.

I provided links below for you to review.  I hope you consider reading the book, which is available in paperback and now also in Kindle/ebook format.  It is so important that maternal mental health as well as mental health, in general, be addressed.  I hope my book can be a contribution in increasing awareness, proper treatment and prevention.  May it bless all who read it.

A Mother’s Climb Out of Darkness Facebook Page

Praeclarus Press Link

A Mother’s Climb Out of Darkness Amazon Paperback Version

A Mother’s Climb Out Of Darkness: A Story about Overcoming Postpartum Psychosis [Kindle Edition]

Amazon United Kingdom Link

The Importance of Support During Postpartum Period

May 9, 2014

Not too long ago I had the pleasure of visiting a couple, who are dear friends of mine. It was a very special visit because I got to meet their 3 day old baby. I believe that every baby is a blessing but for this couple, it is an extra special blessing. Their journey in becoming parents has taken over 17 years. They had come to the place of acceptance that they would never have a baby so you can imagine the joy they felt when she found out she was pregnant.

It was awesome to see a baby in their arms and for me to be able to hold the precious new life. It brought back fond memories of the first 6 weeks of my postpartum period. I remember that once I recovered from the physical demands of labor and delivery, I was able to slip in to my new role of motherhood with a peace and joy that felt different than anything I had experienced before.

I believe the support that I received from my family and friends during that postpartum period prevented an earlier onset of postpartum psychosis. If I had not received the practical, and emotional support during that period, I believe the demands of motherhood would have taken a toll on me much earlier. Although the eventual onset of postpartum psychosis may not have been prevented, in my opinion, support played a role in the unusually late onset of postpartum psychosis.

Since I had no history of mental illness nor did I know postpartum psychosis existed, I often wonder whether postpartum psychosis could have been prevented in my case. My family and I were unaware of any early warning signs or symptoms. Now that I know more about postpartum psychosis, I can look back and recognize how the pattern of sleep deprivation and eventual isolation took its toll on me. Maybe if I knew then what I know now, when I began to have unfounded fears for my baby and I, I could have reached out for help before it became a crisis situation.

As I contemplate my postpartum period and how much the support helped me, I am more sensitive to the needs of others during the postpartum adjustment period. Something as simple as friends providing meals during the first week or two can make a difference. Checking in on the family regularly to see if they need anything is also helpful.

In my case, I was far away from most of my extended family, so the direct support I received eventually did taper off. In cases when family and friends are not or cannot be there to provide support, I encourage moms to consider hiring a postpartum doula or finding other resources such as Healthy Start, which is available in most areas of the United States.

I encourage all mothers to reach out during the postpartum adjustment period and be open to support from others. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and be willing to accept the type of support that can help you during this hectic time.

If you need immediate help, please call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

If you are looking for local pregnancy or postpartum support and resources in your area, please call or email:

Postpartum Support International Warmline (English & Spanish): 1-800-944-4PPD (4773)
Email: support@postpartum.net
www.postpartum.net

Other Related Links:

The Benefits of Emotional Support

Practical Support During Difficult Times

Winning Memoir in Seasons of Our LIves - Autumn Edition from WomensMemoirs.com

May 4, 2014

I am pleased to have my short story “The Season that Changed Me Forever” included in the EBook: the Seasons of Our Lives – Autumn Edition from WomensMemoirs.com. 

I submitted a short memoir for a contest hosted by WomensMemoir.com.  My memoir was chosen as one of the winners for the Autumn edition.  There is an EBook available for each season.  So many amazing contributions were made to the EBooks, which were published back in the winter.  It is an honor to have my memoir included with the stories of so many amazing writers.  Please be sure to check the EBooks out.  Feel free to leave a review on Amazon and check out my Amazon Author Page as well.

Seasons of Our Lives: Autumn

Amazon Author Page

The Book is Going to Be Published

March 28, 2014

Greetings!

I hope you have been getting through the cold and trying winter over the past several months.  It has been a challenging one for me.

For those of you that read my last blog posted on January 19th, Three Things We Can Learn from Our Pets, you are aware that our family dog was not doing well at that time.

Sadly, she passed away in February.  I was so grateful to have been able to care for her and spend time with her the last few weeks of her life.  She was a special part of our family and it is hard saying goodbye.  She will be missed.

Despite this sad event that occurred for me this winter, there is another reason, a much happier one, that I have been absent with my posts since January 19th.  I signed a contract in January for my memoir: A Mother’s Climb Out of Darkness: A Story About Overcoming Postpartum Psychosis. It has been busy ever since as I had to focus on editing my manuscript in order to turn it in to the publisher by the beginning of March.

I still can not believe it is finally happening.  After years of striving to get my manuscript published, I had nearly given up.  Thankfully, I did not. I am reminded that things do not always happen in our timing.

To be at this point is amazing.  This dream is becoming a reality.  I am so thankful to the ones who helped me get to this point.  If you would like to follow the progress of the book, you can like my book Facebook page:
www.facebook.com/amothersclimboutofdarkness.
You can also stay tuned to the book website:
www.amothersclimboutofdarkness.com.

I truly appreciate you for following my posts and subscribing to my blog.  I hope you have found valuable information and encouragement along the way.  I promise to be back blogging regularly as soon as the manuscript is finalized with the publisher.  Will keep you posted on the progress as plans are for a June 2014 book release.

I hope 2014 will be a blessed year for all of us.

With Warm Regards and Blessings,

Jennifer