Postpartum Depression

Many women experience mood changes and feelings of sadness during pregnancy and after the birth of a baby. Depression and anxiety can occur during pregnancy and help is available. After the birth, if the feelings of sadness and/or anxiety do not go away after two weeks or if the mood changes are severe, the woman may be experiencing Postpartum Depression (PPD). One in eight women experience Postpartum Depression. The Perinatal Mood Disorder Initiative is funded by the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services. As a part of the Perinatal Mood Disorder Initiative, there is a statewide Speak Up When You're Down campaign which provides community and professional education on the signs and symptoms of perinatal mood disorders and postpartum depression. Free educational programs are available to the community and professional staff. Several professional education programs and conferences are conducted throughout the year.

The PPD Program has a toll free hotline 1-800-328-3838.

Contact:
Judith King, LCSW, LCADC, CPAS
Coordinator, Perinatal Addictions Prevention Project / PPD
201-876-8900 Ext 232
jking@hudsonperinatal.org

www.njspeakup.gov