I thought you might want to see this letter that appeared in Annie’s Mailbox last week, a syndicated advice column appearing in newspapers across the country:

Dear Annie: I’m writing to urge women to take advantage of National Depression Screening Day on Oct. 6, when free mental health screenings will be available across the nation. I believe it is one step that can save women from struggling endlessly with a serious illness that only in recent years has begun to receive much-needed attention — postpartum mood disorders.

I suffered from a postpartum disorder that left me sad, irritable, obsessive and unable to sleep or eat. I had fleeting thoughts about hurting my newborn son. I loved him dearly, but I’d find myself thinking about smothering him or dropping him down the stairs. I had no idea where these thoughts came from. I was confused, and sank deeper and deeper into misery and fear. I thought if I told anyone, they would lock me away forever. But they didn’t. They told me my illness had a name and that it would go away. This was a tremendous relief.

People often look at postpartum depression and think it is a woman’s problem. But it is a family’s problem. It affects husbands, partners and, most of all, our babies.

These free screenings provide women a chance to see what, if anything, is wrong. Anyone participating will meet with an informed professional and can get help immediately. Sincerely — Katherine Stone, Georgia

Dear Katherine Stone: Thank you for your frank and helpful letter. National Depression Screening Day is Thursday, Oct. 6. Although this year’s focus is on postpartum disorders, the program also screens for other mental-health disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and post-traumatic stress.

All screenings are free and confidential. You will fill out a questionnaire, have the opportunity to hear an educational presentation, receive pamphlets and brochures, and follow up privately with a mental health professional, if necessary.

To find a screening site, our readers can call 1-800-437-1200, or visit www.MentalHealthScreening.org. The lines are open now.

Tag: postpartum depression, post partum depression, baby blues, postpartum OCD, intrusive thoughts, postpartum psychosis