When you read most articles around perinatal mood disorders and postpartum mental health, the focus is primarily around the expecting or new mother. Without a doubt, maternal mental health is very important. But what about expecting and new fathers? Often times, they are left out of the equation and don’t know where to turn to for help (either for themselves or how to help their partners). Postpartum Support International (PSI) has online resources geared specifically for fathers and offers a free monthly phone chat forum with a mental health expert.
“Chats for Dads” on the First Monday of each Month
On the first Monday of each month, Chat for Dads is a free phone chat forum geared towards expecting/new fathers and facilitated by men. The Dad Chat Facilitator is Dr. Daniel Singley, a San Diego-based board certified psychologist whose research specializes in men’s mental health during transition into fatherhood.
Schedule of Call-In Times
First Monday of every month
5pm Pacific, 7pm Central, 8pm Eastern
Call in number is 1-800-944-8766, code 73162#
PSI HelpLine
PSI also offers a HelpLine for phone or text support (available in English and Spanish). This is where expecting or new parents, family members, or anyone in a support role can leave a message requesting assistance and a trained volunteer will call back to provide compassionate help or connect you to local resources.
Call 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD)
English and Spanish
Text 503-894-9453
Visit PSI for more information on resources for Dad’s Mental Health.
Anonymity is an Option
Whether you reach out via the chat forum or call into the HelpLine, you can do so anonymously. You are not required to register or disclose any personal information if you prefer not to.
Our Postpartum Doulas are PSI-trained
Did you know that several of our postpartum doulas have completed training with Postpartum Support International? As part of our continual effort to provide the highest value and quality of service to our clients, we take professional training and education very seriously. For that reason, several of our doulas have attended in-person workshops and online trainings with other birth workers, mental health professionals, pediatricians, lactation support professionals, and social workers.
When you hire us to provide postpartum doula support, our focus is to help both parents in their transition into parenthood. Our doulas are trained professionals that attune to your needs as new parents (without you having to ask). We listen when you need someone by your side during challenging and isolating times that many face during the postpartum period. We are on hand to help answer any new parent questions and our information is based on the latest evidence-based research. Most importantly, we provide newborn/infant care when you need a break (both physically and mentally) to rest and recover. And we are also ready to connect you with local preferred providers should you want to seek out mental health support.
Contact Us today to schedule your birth or postpartum support.
