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NEW STUDY SHOWS POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION (PPD) New Jersey is on the forefront of screening for PPD Livingston, N.J -- Earlier this year, New Jersey became the first state to pass a law requiring postpartum screening for all new mothers. Now a major Danish study published the Journal of the American Medical Association reports that one out of 1,000 women suffers from depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or some other psychotic condition within the first three months after giving birth. “The new study highlights a problematic period after delivery when hormone levels drop, leaving some women susceptible to mental health disorders,” says Richard Miller, M.D., Chairman of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Saint Barnabas Medical Center. This study is the largest ever to look at postpartum depression, and the first to look at other kinds of serious postpartum mental illness. Danish researchers studied health and civic records collected over 32 years from one million first-time parents. They found that first-time mothers were seven times more likely to be hospitalized for a severe mental illness than second-time moms. New Jersey’s law, which took effect in October 2006, requires state physicians to educate expectant mothers and their families about postpartum depression and screen mothers for the disorder. Researchers say most new mothers experience occasional sadness and anxiety, known as the "baby blues," that do not require treatment. About 10 to 15 percent of new mothers suffer postpartum depression, a more serious condition. Recognizing Symptoms Postpartum moms and their spouses should be aware of the following warning signs:
Postpartum Depression Support Although having a baby is a joyous time for most women, it is common for new mothers to feel sad or anxious. Postpartum blues almost always go away in a matter of days. However, postpartum depression lasts longer, is more intense and often requires counseling and treatment. “Many first time moms are more anxious than depressed,” says Lauren Meisels, Ph.D., a licensed clinical psychologist who facilitates Saint Barnabas Medical Center's 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.” Saint Barnabas Medical Center’s free Postpartum Depression Support Group is held Tuesdays at 10 a.m. at the Saint Barnabas Ambulatory Care Center, 200 South Orange Avenue in Livingston, across from the Livingston Mall. Registration is no necessary. Free childcare is available if needed by calling (973) 322-7309 at least 24 hours in advance. In addition to the support group, women can call the following hotline, 1-800-300-0628, which is operated by the SBHCS Behavioral Health Network. This crisis intervention service is available 24 hours a day. CONTACT: PUBLIC RELATIONS (973) 322-9904 [ top ] |
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