Don’t be afraid to reach out for help

• Free Parent Support Line: Call or text 1-888-404-7763. Perinatal Support Washington's Warm Line offers warm, understanding, and private support through parent volunteers and trained staff. Answered live 9 am-4:30 pm, Monday-Friday.
• Parenting Mental Health Chat & Connect: Join other parents with “lived experiences” in a safe online community
• General Mental Health Resources & Suicide Prevention (TC) 

• Perinatal Support Washington Online Therapy: Find a trained therapist who specializes in the reproductive period
• Postpartum Support International: Find a provider that specializes in treating and serving families experiencing perinatal mental health issues

1. Don’t invite yourself over! It’s common to give new parents space for the first 4-6 weeks after they get home from the hospital.
2. Bring something! You are not obligated to bring something, but it will probably be appreciated if you bring a meal without the expectation of staying and holding the newborn.
3. Give parents a break. Ask if they are comfortable with you holding the baby while they take a shower or eat something. Some parents may not have anyone to hold the baby- don’t take it personally!
4. Remember siblings. Offer to take the older children for a few hours so the new parents can have time to do things like sleep and shower.
5. Offer specific, practical help. You can do this by offering to fold their laundry, going to the grocery store for them, or taking their dog for a walk.
6. Keep visits short and sweet. If you plan on visiting, show up on time and only plan to stay for 30 minutes.