From pure elation to postpartum psychosis, the spectrum of emotions a new mom can experience is a microcosm of the entire human experience. And why shouldn’t it be? To give life is to experience it fully in one labour-intensive swoop (pun intended), and to suggest that anything other than sheer elation is a proper response is unrealistic and, frankly, shameful.

Up to 30% of new moms experience postpartum depression or other mood disorders, meaning either you or one of your two best friends will face it head on. Are you prepared, for yourself or as a supportive friend?

January 2012 marks the second annual Postpartum Depression Awareness Month in Edmonton, spearheaded by local mom Tascheleia Marangoni and endorsed by Mayor Stephen Mandel. Behind the awareness month is The Postpartum Depression Awareness Project, a non-profit, grassroots effort to shine a light on the darkness of postpartum depression and postpartum mood disorders. It’s got its sights set high in terms of building a community of support around women in their childbearing years.

Much of the pain of this disease lies in its isolation, and PPDA Month removes that factor altogether. Let’s drag postpartum depression and postpartum mood disorders out of the closet this month. Let’s stand up and say we will not stand for feeling alone in our struggles, that we will support each other on this journey through motherhood. Let’s check out some of the local events and support groups that exist to help mothers suffering from PPD and mood disorders.

The PPDA Mommy Event: January 28, 12-6pm

Sponsored by and hosted at West Edmonton Mall, the PPDA Mommy Event is a free tradeshow benefiting the Postpartum Depression Awareness Project. Fifty Edmonton vendors will be in attendance to share their products and services with local moms, with all profits going toward the support and care of women suffering from PPD and postpartum mood disorders. Stop by for an up-close look at some of the best mom-and-baby products available in the city today.

PPDA Support & Education Group: Wednesdays, 1-3pm

Featuring guest speakers, onsite childcare, and delicious snacks, this free mom’s group focuses on the needs and experiences of those touched by postpartum depression and mood disorders.

Local moms’ groups: Times vary

The above link can serve as a starting point for finding mom’s groups in your area, but it truly is just a starting point. Finding support can be as easy as meeting your neighbor every week for coffee, or as involved as joining a parent-and-tot class to meet others in the same boat. The key is not allowing yourself to get too isolated in your experience of motherhood.

Birth Source workshops: Times vary

While not always specific to postpartum depression, Birth Source workshops provide an opportunity to explore your interests in a baby-friendly, mom-supportive environment. We’ve got many workshops coming up that might make your mothering experience a little easier, including Babywearing Basics and FitMommy bootcamp, so we hope you’ll take advantage.