Uncategorized – WV Impact

What are Protective Factors?

Posted on February 1, 2021 by Lily Hicks

Mother holding baby on her shoulder and smiling

There are ways to build and strengthen the characteristics that keep WV families strong and resilient. Through the strengthening of coping strategies and by building resilience, WV families can deal more effectively with stressful events and eliminate some of the risk and negative impact of times of stress and anxiety. By building the factors that protect us from breaking down and/or giving up, we can learn to find balance and overcome negative impacts more constructively and effectively. Strong families build stronger communities! […]

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Motherhood: Relationships Matter!

Posted on January 21, 2021 (January 22, 2021) by Lily Hicks

The addition of a new baby can make creating or maintaining outside relationships a struggle whether that be with family, friends, or a partner. If your baby is born with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS), they may experience prolonged periods of fussiness which may lead to greater stress on you and your relationships. Don’t worry, there are a few tips that can help you navigate this time! […]

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Financial Considerations

Posted on January 4, 2021 (February 2, 2021) by Lily Hicks

Written by: Rebecca Campbell, MA Understanding finances when raising a baby can be difficult, but with a good plan of action and resources to assist you, it is not impossible. When you have a new baby you will have additional financial obligations to consider such as diapers, wipes, formula, medical appointment/medication costs, clothes, childcare, and […]

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Returning to Education After Baby

Posted on December 21, 2020 (December 30, 2020) by Lily Hicks

Written by: Rebecca Campbell, MA Have you ever wanted to further your education, but you were concerned about barriers you may face especially now that you have a new baby? The good news is there are options available to tailor your education directly to your needs and schedule. You can participate in online learning, find […]

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Getting a Job: Rights as a MAT user and employment and childcare resources

Posted on December 8, 2020 (December 9, 2020) by Lily Hicks

Written by: Rebecca Campbell, MA Disclaimer: Resources referenced within this blog are based on resources available prior to Covid-19. Resources may not currently be available to all individuals, but local DHHRs can provide updated information on resources as well as availability and requirements once Covid-19 restrictions are lifted. Hi moms! Now that you have had […]

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The Stigma of Maternal Substance Use

Posted on November 17, 2020 by Melina Danko

Word cloud made with words relating to stigma

Mothers with substance use disorder (SUD) or a history of SUD face heavy stigmatization (Betsy Hardy, BSN, 2017). Stigma is a known barrier to treatment seeking. […]

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Bonding with Baby

Posted on November 2, 2020 (November 9, 2020) by Melina Danko

close up picture of mother holding a baby's hand

Bonding is the term often used to describe the intense attachment between a parent and child.
We are going to examine some thoughts and feelings you may experience when your baby is born, when you are in the hospital and lastly, when you go home.
[…]

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What to expect next with a Home Visiting Program

Posted on October 19, 2020 (November 9, 2020) by Melina Danko

Home visitor holding newborn baby as mom leans in

Caring for a new baby with Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) can be very stressful and overwhelming. Don’t worry Mama, home visiting programs are here to help you! Read more to learn about different home visiting programs. […]

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Why Mothers Should Really Consider Breastfeeding

Posted on July 21, 2020 (November 9, 2020) by Lily Hicks

Young mom nurses her newborn baby while in the child's nursery.

New moms have all kinds of worries and fears. Mom’s who are in treatment for substance abuse worry about LOTS of additional things. Although most people don’t realize it, mothers whose infants go through withdrawal feel a tremendous amount of guilt, shame and so much fear for their babies. Breastfeeding can be a bridge to help mothers feel like they are helping their babies – even making their babies feel better during a truly stressful time. In truth, YOU are the medicine that your baby needs! […]

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