Pregnancy & Postpartum Support Minnesota

Pregnancy & Postpartum Support Minnesota focuses on addressing perinatal mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and mood disorders by connecting families and professionals to support and resources. Approximately one in five birthing individuals experiences a perinatal mental health condition,  yet only about 25% of those identified actually receive treatment (AAMC). This significant gap in care is at the heart of PPSM’s mission.

PPSM aims to ensure no Minnesotan moves through their pregnancy and postpartum journey alone. Through connecting pregnant and postpartum women to mental health support and resources, advocacy, and awareness training for community and providers, PPSM starts bridging the gap in mental health care for Minnesota families.

(PPSM team photo shared in 2026.)

PPSM is the Minnesota chapter of Postpartum Support International (PSI).  Through PSI, Pregnancy Postpartum Support Minnesota encourages Minnesota providers to attend PSI’s perinatal mental health training opportunities by providing scholarships to decrease the financial burden. 

Over the years, PPSM has partnered with a variety of community organizations and believes in lifting up the work that is already happening to improve the lives of those in pregnancy and postpartum. PPSM sees mental health from a holistic perspective, and that while therapy and medication are a big part of treatment to be well, so is peer support, access to basic resources and traditional ways of community and doula care.

Kristine shared that one of the most meaningful parts of her work is hearing directly from individuals who have benefited from PPSM’s services. At conferences and events, community members often approach PPSM volunteers to share their stories, describing how finding PPSM’s resources or peer support helped them through difficult postpartum experiences.

“These moments remind us why we do what we do,” Kristine said. “There is hope, there is help to feel better, and we are successful in doing that [providing resources to families].”

Like many volunteer-run organizations, PPSM faced significant challenges following the COVID-19 pandemic. Volunteer burnout led to difficult decisions, including the discontinuation of programs such as peer support groups and a warm line. While these services were deeply valued, sunsetting them allowed the organization to remain sustainable.

Now, PPSM is in a rebuilding phase. Rather than duplicating services already offered nationally through PSI, the organization is focusing on identifying Minnesota-specific needs. A key challenge remains connecting individuals to available providers, especially culturally matched and language-specific care, and expanding access in rural areas outside the Twin Cities metro.

One of PPSM’s most recent accomplishments is the launch of its updated online resource list, which provides mental health and community support options for individuals at various stages of pregnancy and parenting. Many volunteer hours were put into this project, and Kristine shares that they are excited that it is finally available again for those who are looking for support. 

PPSM will host two main events this year. These include Daisy Day, an annual family-friendly fundraiser featuring mental health resources, children’s activities, and survivor stories. Daisy Day will take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026. Additionally, PPSM is bringing an in-person, two-day PSI training to Duluth, Minnesota, on October 7–8, 2026, aimed at educating providers and community members on perinatal mood disorders.

Learn more about PPSM’s upcoming events HERE.

Kristine encouraged individuals who want to make a difference to start by identifying their passions and getting involved, even if it feels intimidating at first. She emphasized that nonprofit organizations need a wide range of skills, not just those directly related to healthcare.

“There’s a role for everyone,” she said. “You can make a big difference even with just a small contribution.”

Kristine concluded with a powerful reminder of PPSM’s core purpose:

“Our aim is to make sure that no one goes through pregnancy and postpartum alone. It can be incredibly isolating, especially if you are struggling.”

She shared a quote from a Daisy Day speaker that continues to inspire the organization’s work:

“Imagine if every new mom had the support that she needed. That’s not a dream, that’s a decision. One that we can demand together.” ~ Adriana Goblirsch