A Meaningful Place in The Motherhood Space

As a health system that cares for people from the moment they enter the world throughout every stage of life, we know that wellness starts on day one. Our goal is zero preventable infant and child deaths, achieved through focusing on safe sleep, breastfeeding support, nutrition and other infant safety strategies. It’s equally important to support new and expecting moms as they adjust to this new stage of life.

In fall of 2023, Baptist Health opened a new intensive day program, The Motherhood Space, for expecting and new moms up to two years postpartum who are experiencing maternal mental health challenges, such as depression or anxiety. Since then, 142 women have gone through the program.

One of them was AnnaMarie Knight, a first-time mom to baby Judah.

“I feel like I can be a better mom, woman, spouse, friend, everything, because of the time that I spent in The Motherhood Space,” she said.

Moms who participate in The Motherhood Space have access to a private lactation space, a massage chair and relaxation area, a guest pass to the YMCA during program participation, transportation services for those in need, and scholarships available for those who qualify.

Knight first sought help for anxiety and depression in 2018 and refused to let the conditions hold her back from her dream of starting a family. Throughout her pregnancy, she worked with her therapist to prepare for the transition to motherhood and the potential perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMAD) that may follow.

During the first few weeks after Judah's birth, Knight experienced what she thought were the typical "baby blues" and post-delivery hormone changes. But around week eight, she knew it was more.

"I was definitely struggling emotionally, and it didn't really go away," Knight remembered. "I was having a lot of intrusive and scary thoughts. Because of my history with anxiety and depression, I realized what was going on and I knew I needed support."

Knight turned to her doula, who recommended The Motherhood Space.

"The Motherhood Space was designed with moms in mind," said Jill Garrett, PsyD, a Baptist Behavioral Health psychologist who specializes in maternal mental health and founding psychologist and program director of The Motherhood Space. "Led by psychologists who specialize in working with moms who are pregnant and postpartum -- and who happen to be moms themselves! -- the program is designed to support the adjustment to motherhood with group programming that is social and engaging, wellness inspired, and care that works."

Knight started the three-day-a-week program when her son was just over 4 months old. On her first day, she immediately connected with another new mom, with whom she remains close. In addition to group therapy, program participants do activities like art therapy, walking and yoga.

"I really feel like the time I spent there was crucial for my well-being and my child's well-being. It was 'life-giving,'" Knight said.

“When you’re going through the postpartum period, it’s so important to know that you’re not alone and you have this community of other people who are going through the same thing," Knight added. "I’m so grateful to the entire Motherhood Space team for guiding and helping me through this journey.” Dr. Garrett added, “My message to women who are pregnant or recently gave birth is to recognize your insight as a strength. If you're not feeling well, know that you’re not alone. There are things you can do to feel better, and we’re here to help.”

Baptist Health partners with local nonprofit organizations and civic leaders to lead initiatives that address real health inequities in our communities. Read more