Women of all childbearing ages can experience some type of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (PMAD) which can include postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder, postpartum bipolar, and postpartum psychosis.
Many women hide or downplay symptoms they may experience and believe they will subside on their own without understanding that untreated, these mental illnesses can have a devastating impact on them, their babies, their partners and families.
PMAD affects the entire family, but with an integrated approach to family mental wellness, intervention allows mothers and parents to move beyond the postpartum period as a thriving family unit.
Meridian provides specialized care for any woman experiencing symptoms of PMAD through both medical and mental health providers. Understanding the specific needs women require during this period of time during and following pregnancy.
If you would like to request an appointment for a free maternal mental health assessment, CLICK HERE and select Maternal Mental Health.
Questions to help assess if you may be suffering from postpartum depression or symptoms related to PMAD utilizing the Edinburgh Scale:
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I have been able to laugh and see the funny side of things
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I have looked forward with enjoyment to things
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I have blamed myself unnecessarily when things went wrong
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I have been anxious or worried for no good reason
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I have felt scared or panicky for no very good reason
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Things have been getting on top of me
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I have been so unhappy that I have had difficulty sleeping
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I have felt sad or miserable
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I have been so unhappy that I have been crying
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The thought of harming myself has occurred to me
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Approximately 24,000 stillbirths happen each year in the United States, in addition to grief, many of these women also experience postpartum depression. Women who give birth to a premature child, or have a child spend extended time in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, can also take a toll on maternal mental health.
