Care Plus NJ’s Maternal & Family Center hosted its annual “Empowerment to Wellness” event on May 15, 2024 to celebrate Behavioral Health Awareness Month. Held at 610 Valley Health Plaza in Paramus, NJ, this event brought together communities of new and expectant moms, dads, caregivers, families, healthcare professionals and community organizations to offer education about perinatal Behavioral Health.
A Day of Learning, Sharing and Self-Care
The “Empowerment to Wellness” event allowed interested attendees to hear from perinatal Behavioral Health experts and physicians, participate in self-care activities and explore Behavioral Health resources for new moms and families. The quality event was free and open to the public but registration was required to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all.
All day long expectant moms, healthcare professionals and community organizations networked and shared relevant resources for family wellness. The event had a variety of professionals including perinatal Behavioral Health providers, OB/GYNs, primary care providers, wellness and support nutritionists and representatives from Postpartum Support International (PSI) and local maternal health resources.
Great Talks and Supportive Sessions
One of the highlights of the event was a talk by PSI chair Kara Kushnir, who shared her personal experience with birth severe psychological distress and perinatal anxiety/obsessive-compulsive disorder (PPA/OCD). She emphasized the importance of having strong support systems and effective coping mechanisms when navigating the challenges of motherhood, including perinatal Behavioral Health conditions, NICU stays, infant loss or stillbirths, and parenting a child with special needs.
Kara’s talk deeply resonated with many, offering both empathy and practical advice for mothers facing similar challenges. She highlighted the critical importance of Behavioral Health awareness and support for moms during the perinatal period.
Sessions for Every Need
The event had multiple sessions including:
- Postpartum Depression 101
- Stress Management Strategies
- Community Resources and Support
- Nutrition and Behavioral Health
Each session was designed to provide valuable information and practical tips for new and expectant moms. These sessions were well attended and allowed attendees to learn from the experts and get insight into how to manage their Behavioral Health.
Empowerment Message
Melissa Oparaku, Vice President of Outpatient Services at Care Plus NJ, spoke about the importance of maternal Behavioral Health. “Maternal mental illness is the leading cause of death in pregnant and postpartum individuals in the US, 22.3% of all maternal deaths nationwide,” she said. “We want the Maternal and Family Center to help moms step into wellness and empower every mom to not just survive, but to thrive. We want moms to leave our program with everything they need to live their best personal and family life.”
Next
The “Empowerment to Wellness” event was a hit and we know Behavioral Health support for new and expectant moms is important. Care Plus NJ will continue to provide Behavioral Health services and resources to the community so every mom can thrive.
If you couldn’t attend, reach out for support and check out our Maternal & Family Center.
Bottom Line
The “Empowerment to Wellness” event showed the importance of Behavioral Health awareness and support in maternal care. With great sessions and speakers the event was full of valuable information and insight. Care Plus NJ is committed to empowering moms and building a community for all families.
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