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Senate Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
Senate of Pennsylvania
Session of 2021 - 2022
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | April 7, 2022 10:03 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Senator Camera Bartolotta |
| To: | All Senate members |
| Subject: | Postpartum Depression Awareness Month Resolution |
| In the near future, I will introduce a resolution designating May 2022 as “Postpartum Depression Awareness Month” in Pennsylvania. Following the birth of a child, many new moms experience postpartum baby blues. However, one in seven women experience a more severe, long-lasting form of depression known as postpartum depression. Symptoms of postpartum depression vary and can range from mild to severe, but typically include depressed mood or severe mood swings, excessive crying, irritability and anger, difficulty bonding with the baby, withdrawing from family and friends, appetite problems, feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt or inadequacy, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. Unfortunately, many women do not seek professional treatment because of the stigma associated with postpartum depression. Not only are they going through one of the most difficult experiences imaginable, but these new moms also feel isolated and unable to talk with others about their experience during what they are told is "the happiest time of their lives." Research by the American Psychological Association indicates that 15 percent of new mothers suffer from postpartum depression. In Pennsylvania, this means about 20,000 babies and their mothers are annually affected by this disorder. Nationwide, only about 50 percent of new mothers are screened for depression, and even fewer actually receive treatment following a positive screen. This indicates that many women each year are not getting the help they need. The best way to support new parents experiencing this disorder is to educate the community, raise awareness, provide screening to identify those who may be at higher risk, and ensure that those who do screen at risk are connected to supportive services and resources. It is critical for new moms experiencing depression to know that they are not alone in their fight. Please join me in the effort to bring attention to a struggle that impacts so many by cosponsoring this resolution. |
Introduced as SR293