JFSLA Newsletter - August 2021

JFS Adds New Pregnancy & Postpartum Support Group Just for Dads

In her 14 years of facilitating pregnancy and postpartum support groups for new mothers at JFS, New Moms Connect Program Director, Melanie Weiner, LMFT, noted that fathers do not often find similar support.

For years, Melanie dreamed of creating a setting in which new fathers could support each other, learn about their new family roles, connect with their babies, manage stress, and navigate their relationships in this new phase of their lives.

This year, JFS was thrilled to launch an ongoing series of groups for new fathers. These free 4-week groups are held in the early evening on Zoom. Through New Dads Connect, JFS offers a brief, practical curriculum, and space for fathers to share their questions and feedback directly with each other.

“Fathers may not be as likely to look for social or professional support if they are having a tough time in their families or are themselves struggling. For a long time, we have wanted to make a space for fathers and try to reach out to them. The dads who have participated so far have said it is very helpful to talk to other fathers and to learn some dad-specific information from facilitators like, for instance, that fathers play differently than mothers and that their bond with their baby might look different. Or that dads can get postpartum depression too,” stated Melanie Weiner.

Growing evidence indicates that depression and anxiety strike not just 20% of new mothers, but also 10% of new fathers. Our New Dads Connect group strives to support new fathers’ mental health and to strengthen the well-being of their families.

Our groups welcome all sexual orientations and gender identities. To learn more, please contact newdadsconnect@jfsla.org, or click here.