Good news on the postpartum depression front.  The State of New Jersey became the first state to require that all mothers be screened for postpartum depression prior to being released from the hospital.  The new law became effective late in 2006.

Early diagnosis of postpartum depression, or a risk of postpartum depression, can help ensure a woman receives the right treatment to prevent PPD from taking over her life.  If a mother knows she is at risk, or knows she has postpartum depression, before leaving the hospital she will be able to make the necessary arrangements to have adequate help available, start any necessary medication immediately, and begin talking to a professional.

Close to 80-90% of women have some form of the baby blues during the first days and weeks after bringing their new baby home.  Postpartum depression is a more severe form of the baby blues.  Postpartum depression last longer and require medical or therapeutic assistance to overcome.  The rate of diagnosis of postpartum depression is up 20% in recent years partly because moms know more about the disorder and what to look for, doctors are more closely monitoring their patients for signs of the disorder, and people are more open to talking about it.

Hopefully we will see more states follow New Jersey’s lead and begin screening new moms before they leave the hospital.  At the very least every mother and her partner need to know what to look for.

For more information on postpartum depression visit postpartum.net.  If you think you may have postpartum depression talk to your doctor.

Care to comment