Free New Moms Support Group — Northbrook, IL | PPD IL Alliance
New Moms Supporting Each Other is a free support group from the Postpartum Depression Alliance of Illinois (PPD IL Alliance) for pregnant women and mothers with children under age one. The adjustment to motherhood is real — and for the many women who experience postpartum depression, anxiety, or other perinatal mood disorders, it can feel overwhelming. This Northbrook group offers a safe, non-judgmental environment to talk about all of it, with your baby right there beside you.
What to Expect
The group is professionally guided and meets twice monthly (first and third Mondays) in Northbrook. Discussions address postpartum issues openly — the excitement of motherhood alongside the genuine challenges of parenting, sleep deprivation, identity shifts, and mood changes. You may bring your infant with you to group sessions, and breastfeeding is welcomed. The group is led by Dr. Sarah Allen, Director of the PPD IL Alliance, who has extensive psychotherapy and research experience treating pregnant and postpartum mood disorders.
Who This Group Is For
This group is designed for pregnant women and mothers with babies ages 0 to 12 months. Whether you are a first-time mom or adding to your family, whether you have a diagnosis or just feel like something is harder than it should be, you are welcome. Many members are navigating postpartum depression or anxiety; others simply want honest connection during a demanding season of life.
Why Peer Support Works
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders affect as many as one in five new mothers, and isolation makes symptoms worse. Meeting other moms who are living the same reality counters the shame and secrecy that so often surround postpartum struggles. With professional guidance layered on top of peer connection, members get both validation and practical strategies — and the reassurance that they are not alone, not to blame, and can feel well again.
How to Join
The group is free of charge. Registration is required — call the PPD IL Alliance at 847-791-7722 to register for the next session and confirm current meeting dates and times. The PPD IL Alliance also offers free statewide phone support (847-205-4455) and email support from volunteer moms who have themselves recovered from perinatal mood disorders.