Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders

The experience of pregnancy and becoming a mother is often one of the most miraculous and joyous parts of family life. It also can be one of the most physically, mentally and emotionally challenging times for a mother. For mothers experiencing a Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (PMAD), the difficulty is more intense and lasts longer. In rural areas like Butte County, 1-in-5 mothers will suffer from perinatal depression or anxiety. PMADs are the most common complication of pregnancy, and when left untreated, can have serious effects on mothers, children, and families.

While this may sound alarming, it’s important to know that perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are common and treatable with the right help and support. There are many ways mothers can find help, and the first step is to talk to your doctor about your symptoms and the potential that you are experiencing a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder. Sometimes relief can be as simple as ensuring mom is getting adequate support, sleep, and nourishment. In other instances, mothers may need to try different approaches, such therapeutic counseling with a specially trained therapist, physician prescribed medication, or attending a support group.

Even though Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders are the most common complication of pregnancy, mothers can experience shame and guilt because they are experiencing negative feelings during a time that is joyful for many. If you or someone you love is experiencing depression or anxiety, it is important to understand that:

→ It is not your fault

→ You are not alone

→ With the right care and treatment, things will get better

In Butte County, we are fortunate to have many amazing groups such as the Chico Mothers Club, Moms on the Ridge, library story time, La Leche league, and many other local groups that support mothers and families. There are also specialized support groups online at Postpartum Support International, where moms can connect with other mothers who have experienced a Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder. There are also online blogs and hotlines that can be very helpful for mothers too. Moms and families can call the Postpartum Support International Help Line at 1-800-944-4773 to get connected to local support services or visit www.mothers-strong.org for a complete list of local and online resources.

Mothers Strong is a collaboration of local agencies and moms who are dedicated to identifying and expanding local resources for mothers, as well as bringing education and awareness to the issue in Butte County.

Here are a few things Mothers Strong would like families to know about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders:

→ If you think you or someone you love may be having a particularly difficult time during pregnancy and/or after the baby is born, it’s important to talk about it.

→ Depression and anxiety during and after pregnancy occurs more often than most people realize.

→ New mothers can also experience Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic and Psychosis Disorders.

If you would like to join the Mothers Strong effort, visit the Mothers Strong website at www.first5butte.org/mothers-strong or visit first5butte.org/contact to contact First 5 Butte.

Is it Baby Blues or something more serious?

Answering yes to one or more of the following questions may indicate Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder. For the complete screening tool, visit https://psychology-tools.com/epds/

→ I haven’t been able to laugh and see the funny side of things.

→ I haven't looked forward with enjoyment to things.

→ I have blamed myself unnecessarily when things went wrong.

→ I have been anxious or worried for no good reason.

→ I have felt sad or miserable.

→ The thought of harming myself or my baby has occurred to me.