10/30/2025
💙 Supporting Parents, Protecting Babies: Understanding Shaken Baby Syndrome 💙
As we close out Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, our Health Department is taking time to raise awareness about Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) and the stressors many new parents face. Welcoming a new baby brings joy and excitement, but it can also be exhausting and stressful. Sleepless nights, constant crying, and the demands of caring for a newborn can feel overwhelming, and it’s important for caregivers to know: you are not alone, and help is available.
🔹 What is Shaken Baby Syndrome?
Shaken Baby Syndrome is a serious brain injury caused by forcefully shaking an infant or young child. It can lead to severe brain damage, lifelong disability, or even death. Most often, SBS happens when a caregiver becomes frustrated with a baby’s crying, but it is always preventable.
💠 Steps to Prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome:
💠 If you feel overwhelmed, place your baby safely in their crib and take a moment to calm yourself.
💠 Call a friend, family member, or support line for help.
💠 Remember, it’s normal for babies to cry. Sometimes they just need time to settle.
By raising awareness and supporting one another, we can help protect our most vulnerable children and strengthen families during the early weeks of parenthood. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to us at 618-826-5007
