Almost one in four women will experience depression at some point in their lives. Women are twice as likely as men to experience depression. Because women are most likely to experience depression during the primary reproductive years (ages 25 to 45), they are especially vulnerable to developing depression during pregnancy and or within a year after childbirth. This form of depression is referred to as Perinatal Depression.
Perinatal Depression is estimated to impact 10 to 20 percent of new mothers and can affect any woman—regardless of age, race, income, culture, or education, however women living in poverty are more likely to experience Perinatal Depression and teen mothers are twice as likely to suffer with the disorder.
Perinatal Depression symptoms range from mild to severe and can include feelings of sadness, guilt, fear, worthlessness and anxiety, and difficulty making decisions. Many women have difficulty finding the energy to care for themselves, their infants, and their families. Some even have feelings about harming themselves and their children. Without treatment, symptoms may last a few weeks, months, or even years. Eighty percent of women with Perinatal Depression will go undiagnosed and untreated and will suffer needlessly.
Perinatal Depression symptoms range from mild to severe and can include feelings of sadness, guilt, fear, worthlessness and anxiety, and difficulty making decisions. Many women have difficulty finding the energy to care for themselves, their infants, and their families. Some even have feelings about harming themselves and their children. Without treatment, symptoms may last a few weeks, months, or even years. Eighty percent of women with Perinatal Depression will go undiagnosed and untreated and will suffer needlessly.
Early diagnosis and treatment is critical, therefore it is imperative that women and their family; friends; clinicians and other professionals know the signs and symptoms of Perinatal Depression. Many states including New Jersey, Oregon, Washington and Iowa have implemented robust educational campaigns and treatment programs.
In 2010, by declaring May as Perinatal Depression Awareness month, the California State Legislature assisted in raising California’s awareness of this devastating and treatable medical condition and encourage women and their families who may be suffering to seek help.
In 2010, by declaring May as Perinatal Depression Awareness month, the California State Legislature assisted in raising California’s awareness of this devastating and treatable medical condition and encourage women and their families who may be suffering to seek help.
Several events and activities are taking place this month to raise awareness and support for those suffering from maternal depression. One event is an awareness forum on maternal mental health taking place on Friday:
Who: Everyone
What: Assemblymember Roger Hernandez, the Los Angeles County Perinatal Mental Health Task Force and Citrus Valley Health Partners are hosting an awareness forum on maternal mental health. Speakers include: Assemblymember Roger Hernandez, 57th District; Caron Post, PhD; Kimberly Wong, Esq.; Gabrielle Kaufman, MA, BC-DMT, NCC and Ellie Berkowitz-Handler, PhD
Who: Everyone
What: Assemblymember Roger Hernandez, the Los Angeles County Perinatal Mental Health Task Force and Citrus Valley Health Partners are hosting an awareness forum on maternal mental health. Speakers include: Assemblymember Roger Hernandez, 57th District; Caron Post, PhD; Kimberly Wong, Esq.; Gabrielle Kaufman, MA, BC-DMT, NCC and Ellie Berkowitz-Handler, PhD
When: Friday, May 11, 2012
2pm-4pm
Where: Citrus Valley Medical Center - Queen of the Valley Campus
1115 S. Sunset Ave, Oakwood Room
West Covina, CA 91790
**Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are treatable. For caring support and referrals, call 1.800.944.4773.
