What is LAB?

If you’re like me, upon hearing the name LAB, you are pondering its scientific nature or are having horrible flashbacks of some kind of biology class. You may be wondering where the name originated. When this group was in the planning stages, I had visions of using a unique word with a “cool” meaning and spent time looking for such a word. While unique words are fun, ultimately, having a simple name that describes the group is best. LAB stands for Life After Baby, which is in reference to this particular stage of life and all the stresses and struggles that may occur during it.

In the Bible, Jesus tells a story where He compares himself to a shepherd and people who desire His care to His sheep. He says that as their shepherd, “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10) I pray and hope that you can leave each LAB group knowing that yes, YES, there IS life after baby.

If your “Life After Baby,” whether it be your first or fifth baby, has brought some unexpected challenges, then this group has been formed with you in mind. Those unexpected struggles often come in the form of a postpartum mood disorder. Our LAB discussions will include but are not limited to discussions specific to postpartum mood disorders. We welcome those who are struggling with life after baby, whether or not a mood disorder has been diagnosed. Our concerns lie not with specific diagnoses and labels but with the needs of struggling families.

The purpose of this group is to provide an avenue for community, support, resources, education, and encouragement within the context of the truth of God’s Word. Our mission is to help families cope with the stressful complications of welcoming new babies. We intend to accomplish our mission by providing a safe place for respectful sharing while maintaining utmost confidentiality in who attends and what is discussed.

We are by definition a self-help group that is a local chapter of Postpartum Support International. While medical personnel will be present, this group does not and cannot provide medical advice or treatment. Questions of a medical nature will be discussed informally, but each member is responsible for her own medical care and should discuss medical issues with her doctor.

 

LAB is your group. As a work in progress, we will adapt as the need arises and the group grows. We hope that you will feel comfortable giving us your valuable input. No one knows what you need more than you do. Please feel free to contact us with questions or feedback at lifeafterbaby@gmail.com.