Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/May 6, 2020 – 10:20 am
Today, Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is recognizing World Maternal Mental Health Day. World Maternal Mental Health day intends to raise awareness of the perinatal mood disorders (PMD) that are experienced by many mothers and can include anxiety, depression and postpartum psychosis.
Mothers can experience PMD at any time during pregnancy, or within the first year after the birth of a baby. Symptoms of PMD vary and may include:
- having less interest or enjoyment in things;
- feeling sad most of the time;
- feeling anxious or worried;
- feeling worthless, hopeless, or alone;
- changes in appetite, energy, sleep or concentration; and more.
“Perinatal mood disorders are the most common complication of childbirth, and our area experiences higher rates than the provincial average,” says Shelly Brown, Healthy Families Program Manager at HPEPH. “Women of every culture, age, income level, race, and level of education can develop PMD. As a community, we can support mothers and families by increasing awareness of PMD, decreasing stigma, and improving access to mental health services.”
PMD can have a significant impact on women’s overall health and the wellbeing of their family. If you or someone you know is experiencing PMD symptoms, it is important to connect with professional support. For more information, visit our Mental Health After Pregnancy webpage. For a list of local supports, visit HPEPH’s Getting Help webpage.
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Media Contacts:
Emily Tubbs, Communications Specialist
etubbs@hpeph.ca
Veronica Montgomery, Foundational Standards Manager
vmontgomery@hpeph.ca
About Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is a public health agency that serves the counties of Hastings and Prince Edward from four local offices. We monitor the health of our local population, deliver programs and services within our communities, and help develop healthy public policies. We provide information and support in many areas to help improve the health and well-being of our residents. Together with our communities, we help people become as healthy as they can be. For more information, please visit hpePublicHealth.ca. You can also find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
