Postpartum Depression Goes Untreated Too Often
This content has been updated from previous article on October 30, 2023.
800,000 new mothers are affected by a maternal mental health disorder each year in the United States. One in seven new moms is affected, but up to 50 percent of those women go undiagnosed. Untreated maternal mental health disorders impact the mother, baby, family, and society as a whole and contribute to the incredibly high rate of suicide and overdose in postpartum moms.
Aftermath of COVID-19 Pandemic and Postpartum Mental Health
The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a dramatic increase in the frequency and severity of mental health disorders in pregnant women and postpartum moms. Social isolation and lack of access to support, as well as financial and relationship stress, has caused the rates of maternal mental health disorders to triple.
According to a study published in 2022, one in three new mothers during the early part of the pandemic screened positive for postpartum depression. This is nearly three times pre-pandemic levels, which were around one in seven.
Anxiety is already common in pregnant women and postpartum moms, but the fears of COVID-19 exposure and limited access to family support due to social distancing requirements during the pandemic amplified symptoms and prevented these women from accessing treatment.
LifeStance Health is a national leader in mental, behavioral, and emotional wellness with multiple locations in 33 states. Services vary by location.
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Treatment Options for Postpartum Mental Illness
New mothers experiencing Postpartum Depression can seek several treatment options that are available. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits will be recommended, including avoiding alcohol intake and getting more rest. PPD medications such as antidepressants and mood stabilizers may be offered if required. In addition, these therapy PPD treatment options may be considered:
A relatively new oral medication called Zurzuvae® is now heralded by many as a breakthrough in postpartum depression treatment. Zurzuvae® (zuranolone) offers a unique mechanism of action, aimed at providing faster relief from postpartum depression symptoms by targeting specific neuroreceptors. Its aims, which include rapid onset and fewer side effects, provide hope for new mothers seeking swift and efficient recovery, potentially revolutionizing postpartum depression treatment.
Zurzuvae® (zuranolone), is a once-daily oral medication taken for just two weeks and aims to improve symptoms much faster than other antidepressants.
Find a provider if you’d like to learn more about Zurzuvae® (zuranolone) or would like to discuss any other maternal mental health matters.