Relatewell

First Time Mothers Groups

With your first baby, most women are quite focused and totally absorbed on preparing for the birth (or adoption) and realistically not quite able to envisage life with a baby. Once home with the baby, reality sets in. A mixture of emotions and doubts develop and the feeling of "isolation" becomes one of the major challenges of caring for a newborn. New mothers can share their experiences and find comfort in the fact that most first time mothers experience similar feelings of joy, anxiety and surprise at how all-consuming a baby can be.

During the 4 week program, one session per week, consisting of 2 hours per session, mothers will explore:

  • Emotional issues associated with a total change of life and how this impacts on a women's sense of identity; sense of normality; and how mothers can get support in taking care of their own needs as well as their baby's.
  • Identity, body image, maternal emotions and sexuality.
  • Coping with sleep deprivation and loss of routine.
  • Relationship with partner/husband as well as family (eg grandparents); well meaning friends with children constantly giving their advice; and friends without children.
  • Whether or not to return to work and the associated issues of leaving a baby, finding suitable childcare and feeling guilty for your decision.
  • Impact of being a full-time mother and its associated stressors (eg: sense of self, loss of income, etc).
  • Issues such as caring for the infant and development - feeding, crying, sickness, sleeping, etc.

 

RELATEWELL provides a non-threatening, comfortable environment where mothers and their babies will feel most welcomed.

 

Register your interest in attending a First Time Mothers Program at relate@relatewell.org.au and become part of a supportive network where your feelings and experiences will be shared, heard and valued.

Next scheduled First Time Mothers Group at Coburg: 4 consecutive Wednesday's - May 2, 9, 16 & 23 from 11.00 am to 12.30 pm.

 

All programs are funded by the Australian Government Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs.

 

 

Download First Time Mothers Group Brochure

Download First Time Mothers Group May 2012 Flyer