2004 Press Releases

Support Can Ease the Pain of Postpartum Depression

Livingston, N.J. -- Although having a baby is a joyous time for most women, it is very common for new mothers to feel sad, afraid, angry or anxious. Most new mothers have these feelings in a mild form called postpartum blues––sometimes called “baby blues.” Postpartum blues almost always go away in a matter of days. However, approximately 10 percent of new mothers develop a more troublesome condition called postpartum depression (PPD), which lasts longer, is more intense and often requires counseling and treatment.

"Many first time moms are more anxious than depressed," says Jami Messina, Ph.D., facilitator of Saint Barnabas Medical Center's free Postpartum Depression Support Group. "They are shocked by the adjustment and lack of sleep, and may be grieving for their loss of freedom and identity. These women benefit greatly by a support group with other women who validate their feelings. They are relieved that others share their thoughts and feelings."

Some first time mothers are career women who have concerns about juggling work responsibilities with new expectations and roles. They wonder how they can possibly fit everything in, says Dr. Messina. Some new mothers are afraid to seek help because of a perceived stigma that they are not “maternal” if they are struggling in their new role.
"Before you can perform basic care and loving care for your baby, you have to help yourself feel better," says Dr. Messina.

Recognizing Symptoms
About 50 percent of the time, it is the partner who seeks help for the spouse suffering from PPD. Postpartum moms and their spouses should be aware of the following warning signs:
• extreme fatigue or exhaustion
• sadness
• depression or hopelessness
• sleep disturbances
• poor concentration/confusion
• over or under concern for the baby
• uncontrollable crying or irritability
• lack of interest in the baby
• fear of harming the baby or self

Postpartum depression can result from a combination of hormonal and physical changes. Environmental factors, such as stress and lack of support from friends and family, can exacerbate the situation. Some women appear to have a higher risk of postpartum depression. This includes those who have had postpartum depression before and those with a psychiatric history.

Help for New Moms with PPD
Reaching out for help is an important step toward recovery. Saint Barnabas Medical Center provides a free Postpartum Depression Support Group every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Saint Barnabas Ambulatory Care Center (ACC), 200 South Orange Avenue in Livingston, across from the Livingston Mall. Women may register by calling Saint Barnabas Medical Center at (973) 322-2584. The ACC offers free baby and child sitting services to those who call (973) 322-7309 at least 24 hours in advance.

Women can also be referred the following hotline, 1-800-300-0628, operated by the SBHCS Behavioral Health Network. This hotline is available 24 hours a day. Also, Devendra Kurani, M.D., attending psychiatrist and Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at Saint Barnabas Medical Center, is available for referrals by calling ((973) 535-3131.

Date: May 14, 2004

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