Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMAD)
Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) affect about 1 in 5 women (and about 1 in 10 men) in the first year after a new baby. This include perinatal mood disorders (depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis) and anxiety-related disorders (GAD, panic, OCD, and PTSD).
While hormones related to pregnancy and post-partum are part of this equation, there are many other stressors present during this season of life that leave new parents vulnerable to a slew of mental health problems. Poor sleep, limited social support, increased stress and responsibility, financial burdens, relationship strains, decreased time for exercise, hobbies, and socializing… the list goes on and on. There is a lot to contend with during this time.
Sadly, we are still not universally screening for PMADs and many parents fall through the cracks. It’s incredibly important to extend a lifeline to new parents and get them connected with the treatment and support that they need.
PMAD Resources:
Postpartum Support International