Maternal Depression and Anxiety: Essential Information about Incidence, Impact and Treatment 

Maternal depression and anxiety are very common. Have you or someone you know experienced depression or serious anxiety since becoming a mom? Given the prevalence of these mental health problems among mothers, your answer almost certainly is yes. Yet too often these disorders go undiagnosed and untreated -- in part because of stigma. Stigma is when people are unfairly viewed in negative ways because of their circumstances or a quality. It's essential that we work together as a community to challenge the stigma associated with mental illness. It’s important for all of us to understand the signs of maternal depression and anxiety, safe and effective treatment options and how family and friends can help. Psychiatrist Michelle Wiersgalla and psychologist Gabrielle Mauren from Park Nicollet Health Services join Marti & Erin for an informative and candid discussion everyone should hear.   WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT MATERNAL DEPRESSION & ANXIETY? What has your experience been in your family or circle of friends with depression, anxiety or OCD? Why do you think these problems still are so unlikely to be properly diagnosed or treated among the many mothers (and others) who experience them? What can you do to help reduce the stigma associated with mental health problems?   WANT TO LEARN MORE? ❉ EXERCISE AND MENTAL HEALTH: UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA’S DR. BETH LEWIS DISCUSSES THE PSYCHOLOGY OF EXERCISE. Listen to this episode to learn more about research demonstrating the mental health benefits associated with physical activity.   ❉ POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION (PPD) AND ANXIETY: WHEN THE “BABY BLUES” DON’T FADE AWAY. Psychologist Krista Post, clinical director of the Postpartum Counseling Center, knows there is no shame in seeking help and there is light at the end of the tunnel. Not only has she worked with many families facing postpartum depression, but she experienced it herself after giving birth to twins. Don’t miss this encouraging and informative Mom Enough show!