 |
 |
HANDS Program
Every Parent Needs a Second Pair of HANDS
What is it?
The Health Access Nurturing Development Services (HANDS) program is a voluntary home visitation program for new and expectant parents. The HANDS services begin during pregnancy or anytime before a child is 3 months old and is no cost to the families.
Who can participate?
Any new or expectant mom or dad, even if the parent is not a first-time parent.
What are the Goals of the Program?
The goals of the HANDS program are to
(1) promote healthy pregnancies and births,
(2) assist in healthy child growth and development,
(3) promote healthy, safe homes, and
(4) encourage families to be self-sufficient.
What can Parents Expect from this Program?
(1) to receive support through your pregnancy and the early years of your baby’s life
(2) to learn ways to make your home safer for your baby
(3) to learn information on how to care for your baby
(4) to receive facts on your child’s growth and development
(5) to learn activities that will stimulate your child’s brain development
(6) to receive information about access to other community services
Are you Interested? Please call us at (270)753-3381 or go to http://chfs.ky.gov/dph/mch/ecd/hands.htm for more information.
HANDS program—Reaching Out to Mothers With Depression
The most common complication of childbirth is depression. The HANDS program supports parents and screens for signs of postpartum depression, which can occur during or after pregnancy and last for several days or weeks. Some signs of postpartum depression include, but are not limited to, are as follows:
• Constant sadness
• Lack of motivation/Loss of Interest
• Irritability
• Feelings of isolation, worthlessness, hopelessness, and guilt
• Fatigue and low energy
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Thoughts of hurting baby or yourself
If you are experiencing signs of postpartum depression, the most important things to know are that
• you are not alone,
• you are not to blame for what you are feeling
• you will be well and feel like yourself again, and
• depression is treatable
Postpartum Support International Warm Line: 1-800-944-4PPD
Other Important Telephone Numbers:
Abuse Hotline: 1-800-752-6200
Childcare: 1-502-564-3527
Daycare Issues: 1-502-564-2800
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
