MHA's Blog: Chiming In

Mental Health America today joined with women’s health advocates and Congressional champions in the fight against Postpartum Depression to celebrate the enactment of the Melanie Blocker Stokes MOTHERS Act.

The initiative to combat postpartum depression was signed into law as part of health insurance reform. The law, which was authored by U.S. Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Rep. Bobby Rush (D-IL), will establish a comprehensive federal commitment to combating postpartum depression through new research, education initiatives and voluntarily support service programs.

Mental Health America was a stronger supporter of the law. Postpartum depression is a widespread problem that must be acknowledged, assessed, and treated as the serious health issue that it is.

Some 10 to 20 percent of mothers struggle with postpartum depression and the accompanying feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and even thoughts of suicide. Postpartum psychosis, with symptoms including distorted thinking, paranoia, and loss of touch with reality, will affect 1 in every 1,000 new mothers. Each of these conditions presents a serious risk for new moms.

Though the causes of postpartum disorders are still unclear, research has shown that they are treatable.  However, a great number of cases go undetected. Not only do new mothers face the general stigma surrounding mental illness, but they must also grapple with guilt, embarrassment, and often a lack of understanding and support from their families, communities, and medical providers.

Allowing postpartum depression to go untreated can lead to further mental health complications as well as other consequences for the mother including loss of employment, divorce, self-destructive behavior, and even suicide.  Untreated postpartum depression in new mothers can also have negative impacts on their infants’ physical, psychological, and cognitive development.

The grants provided through the law will promote critical treatment opportunities for new moms and result in safer and healthier postpartum periods for both mothers and children.  The national public education campaign and increased research on postpartum depression facilitated by this legislation will raise awareness and understanding, as well as reveal optimal prevention and treatment strategies.