Speaking as a certified postpartum doula and mother of three young girls, it is critical that Maine’s lawmakers move paid family and medical leave over the finish line this legislative session.

For seven years, I’ve had the honor and privilege of helping parents navigate one of the most fragile, joyful and terrifying times of their lives. I was drawn to this work because of my own harrowing experience with postpartum depression and OCD. When my husband returned to work after my first daughter was born, I struggled with lack of sleep, breastfeeding and social isolation. Paralyzed by panic and thoughts of self-harm, I begged for support. Thankfully, we had the means to get me that support and we all got through it together.

Many families don’t have the resources or ability to get support for postpartum challenges, whether it’s a severe case of postpartum depression like mine or something as simple as making sure everyone is getting nutritious food and staying healthy. The lack of quality, universal, paid family and medical leave exacerbates health issues for both newborns and their parents. L.D. 1964 would provide life-changing support for families at a critical juncture in their lives.

Urge Maine’s lawmakers to support paid family and medical leave, so families in our state can thrive.

Mollie Barnathan, MPH
Portland