January 26, 2022 Signs of inflammation in the blood reliably predict and identify severe depression in pregnancy, reports a new study led by scientists at Van Andel Institute and Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services. The team’s analysis established a set of 15 biological markers found in the blood that can predict if pregnant women will experience significant depressive symptoms with 83% accuracy. The findings could give physicians a much-needed tool to identify women who may be at risk for depression and better tailor their care throughout pregnancy. Nearly one in five new mothers exp ..read more

In March 2020, I gave birth to my second child. Ten days later, Michigan shut down due to the COVID-19 outbreak that had recently been declared a pandemic. During my pregnancy, I gave much consideration to expectations and hopes for my postpartum experience the second time around. As a Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (PMAD) specialist, I was confident. “This is my second child, it’s going to be easy. I have a prevention plan, but probably won’t even need it. I know what to look for.” Then the day of the shutdown arrived – and I had no idea how different my postpartum experience would prove ..read more

Postpartum depression and other perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMAD) affect up to 20 percent of pregnant women and those who have recently given birth. In fact, postpartum depression is the most common complication following childbirth, affecting 1 in every 7 women. Treatments for these illnesses are very effective and can have women feeling more like themselves again quickly. However, the Center for Disease Control reports that less than half of women with a PMAD receive treatment. Without treatment, PMAD symptoms can continue for months or even years! Pine Rest is working to ..read more

During Perintal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMAD) Awareness Month, Michigan residents are being urged to learn more about PMAD and available resources by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. Historically known as postpartum depression, PMADs affect over 23,000 families each year. PMAD is different and more intense than the “baby blues” that many women experience in the weeks after birth of a baby. PMAD includes depression, anxiety, psychosis, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Over 23,000 Michigan famili ..read more

Postpartum depression is the most common complication associated with pregnancy, but it is possible to reduce your risk! According to current studies, approximately 20 percent of women with young children develop postpartum depression, which is one of the six perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). Frankly as a clinical therapist, I think 20 percent is a bit low, considering that we are still fighting the battle of stigma associated with mental illness. Compound that with the expectation that a woman who is pregnant is expected to be “glowing” and transition effortlessly into motherhood ..read more