Caring for yourself during the COVID-19 pandemic

SimplyBorn

Self Care Amidst a Global Pandemic

Our worlds have been flipped upside down in short order, all across the globe. While it has in some way impacted the lives of everyone in our global community, at SimplyBorn we are especially focused on supporting our pregnant, postpartum, and newborn clientele. 

Our team is exposed to the same level of scary media as you are, and because of this, we think it’s time to talk about solutions. Not solutions to rid the world of COVID-19 (though we would if it were that simple!). We want solutions for supporting mental wellbeing - especially amidst this increased trauma exposure for everyone. 

In this post you will be able to find some self-care tips, local resources that are now available virtually, and hopefully some peace of mind. These are trying times, let’s band together and remember the glowing community we are lucky to be a part of. That community is still out there, and with the advancements of technology we can come together (while at a distance) to give love, praise, support and comfort to our sisters, our brothers, mama’s and papa’s. 

Doula Coverage 

You can still have your doula and keep your social distancing too!

Now offering online sessions, Ginger Blossom Doula Services has a variety of Birth Support Packages as well as Postpartum Support Packages. They are running virtual consults and prenatal sessions at this time.

  • Rebekah Reese, Postpartum Doula. - 616-389-3185

Sweet spots are troubleshooting moods, postpartum nutrition, and twins. Rebekah will be doing phone calls at no cost through April. Don’t let the current health concerns prevent you from reaching out for help. You’ve got this and you’re not alone. Please text first and we’ll set up a call.

A local organization of doulas, sleep consultants, lactation consultants and more. Currently they have moved to virtual platforms for providing support (zoom, facetime) for consults, prenatal visits, postpartum visits, virtual sleep consultations, mini childbirth education courses, pumping classes, breastfeeding classes, etc. Because local hospitals are currently not allowing additional support people on hand for hospital births, they are offering in-o home support before clients move to the hospital, and virtual labour support once at the hospital. 

Local Organizations

Raquel Knack has been a lactation professional for 18 years, and is also a certified Bradley method instructor for childbirth education. She offers online Bradley method classes, breastfeeding basics classes, and individual support and troubleshooting sessions. Her website is full of educational videos as well!

Normally this organization offers in-home volunteer based support for mothers and newborns. Their business has adapted to a virtual model during the COVID-19 outbreak. We're here for you. No matter what your situation is, your emotional health is important. MomsBloom has now trained several volunteers who are ready to provide a listening ear and non-judgmental support to you! Even those of us with supportive people in our lives may find it hard to be honest about our true feelings. You may feel guilty sharing about your challenges right now because you know there are others who are struggling so much more. We invite all parents with young children to sign up for virtual visit services! 

After you sign up, you'll be matched with a trained volunteer who will spend about an hour on the phone with you each week. You can schedule the calls for a time that's convenient for you. We look forward to hearing from you!

Counselling Services 

offering psychiatric urgent care, inpatient, and addiction counselling and care. As a result of COVID-19 their urgent care has moved to 100% telehealth communication. For schedualing an appointment as a new patient, call 866-852-4001. They at this time have capacity and are accepting new patients for their inpatient services. 

Specialized in trauma counselling and somatic psychotherapy. Bethany DeBlaay currently has adapted her practice to telehealth in accordance with CDC recommendations. She currently has availability for new patients for virtual sessions. 

This is a designated “safe space” specifically for men dealing with anxiety and depression following the birth of a child. Filled with resources for self-care, community and support. 

A free postpartum emotional support group for mothers and fathers to find community and support. Normally held in person on tuesdays 7 - 9 pm, they may have resources available for coping during COVID-19. Phone 616.391.5000 to get more information about social distancing options during the pandemic. 

State & National Organizations

  • Disaster Distress Hotline - 1-800-985-5990 

https://www.samhsa.gov/disaster-preparedness 

SimplyBorn

Self care 

Providing love for ourselves, our families, and our friends in a time of great need is of the utmost importance. There are lists to be found everywhere of what steps and precautions must be taken to physically protect ourselves from the novel coronavirus, but what about our hearts, and our minds.. 

Get some sleep - Nap - Hydrate - Nourish your body with healthy foods - Learn a new recipe - Check the news, but don’t linger - Consider news sources from outside the  United States (CBC, BBC) - Screen Free time - DIY projects - Take a walk, enjoy nature - Put reasonable parameters on social media - Read a book - Stay positive - Connect with loved ones virtually - Support local businesses when you can - 

Keep things in perspective 


Additional Online Resources