It seems every social service organization is trying to come up with solutions to the increasing incidents of mental health and addictions in the area, and Hastings Prince Edward Public Health is no different.
The health unit’s board of directors learned Wednesday that its Healthy Babies Healthy Children and Nurse-Family Partnership programs are serving 100 new mothers and their families, where healthy child development is at highest risk.
All mothers and families are screened at the birth of the baby.
The most serious issue causing problems for new mothers is mental health.
Public Health Nurse Ceilah O’Prey told the board that that stems from an increase in domestic violence caused by addictions and financial strain.
Also, Hastings and Prince Edward counties have higher rates of pregnancy for those between 15 and 29 than anywhere else in the province.
To help mothers and families, public health nurses conduct regular home visits.
