Iwas fortunate to be able to appear via webcam this morning on the CBS Early Show. On a segment called "Ask It Early" featuring their medical correspondent Dr. Jennifer Ashton, I asked whether she believed all new mothers should be screened for postpartum depression. Her answer? "Overwhelmingly yes."
Here is the video:
Her words were very supportive for women with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders like postpartum depression.
Awesome! It's important as many people as possible with such contacts in the media to reach the public about PPD and the importance of screening (as well as dispel the misconceptions for both).
WAY TO GO! You rock, Katherine! Thanks for doing that!
This is so important! THIS kind of YES reaches so many. Way to go Katherine.
Great job, Katherine! In addition to what Ivy stated above….for those of you active in PPMD awareness, treatment, or involved in programs, why not start making a goal to work with your community and local media (newspapers, web, TV, radio) to put together some type of public service announcement for PPD and a contact for local/state/national resources such as hospitals, support groups, new mother's groups, etc.(don't forget Postpartum Support International and the state coordinators).
Many areas celebrate PPD awareness in May (also Mother's Day month!). We are planning to work on something similar here in New Hampshire. The more that people keep hearing about the prevalence of perinatal depression/anxiety, the sooner there will start to be a culture change in decreasing stigma around the issue, which will hopefully allow for system changes and more women reaching out for support. Keep up the great work, as always, Katherine! You have an army of support behind you!
~Alison
Thanks so much for asking that important question! We can eventually get rid of the stigmas attached to PPD and other PP disorders! Thank you for being a voice for those of us who suffer through this!