Dear Provider

Dear Provider, 

Maternal suicide is one of the leading causes of death during pregnancy and within the first year after birth. About 1 in 7 women screen positive for depression during pregnancy and within the first postpartum year. Treatment of maternal depression and stress has shown to be very effective in both decreasing symptoms and improving functioning among children and families. However, many women with perinatal depression or anxiety are underdiagnosed and go untreated.  This remains a huge problem within our healthcare systems and for our families who are suffering. 

Here are some ways that you can help your patients:  

• Educate yourself and your staff about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders 

• Know the right questions to ask her 

• Screen every pregnant and new mom who comes into your office 

• Refer perinatal women to reputable and reliable maternal mental health professionals  

Please download the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). The EPDS can be used as a stand-alone instrument to help determine whether the individual may have symptoms suggestive of depression. From there a mother can be referred to a specialist.  

You cannot always tell if a mother is experiencing depression, anxiety or even suicide just by looking at her. You must ask her these questions and you must screen her.

Nurture Therapy provides workshops and trainings on the signs and symptoms of PMADs and the most effective ways of screening.  If you are a Chicago provider, please reach out to schedule an in-person or virtual workshop. For further questions, please reach out on the contact page.

Nurture Therapy believes that happy and healthy parents raise happy and healthy babies. It is our mission to support parents and their families and we need your help. We look forward to connecting with you and together, ensuring that we treat healthy mothers in order to promote healthy families.  

Warmly, 
Nurture Therapy