Resources available for Kentucky moms struggling with postpartum depression
About one in eight new mothers report having symptoms of postpartum depression and the rate of women diagnosed at delivery was seven times higher in 2015 than in 2000, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Dr. Elizabeth Ottman, OB/GYN at Ohio County Healthcare, said many rural Kentucky women lack the resources and support needed to address perinatal mental health disorders.
“I started in 2019 really getting into treating perinatal mental health,” Ottman explained. “The program at Ohio County was for Zulresso infusion and it was the first drug approved by the FDA for postpartum depression.”
Ottman noted the drug is now available in a pill form. Symptoms of postpartum depression may include feeling persistently angry or sad, having trouble bonding with your baby, insomnia and loss of appetite.
Dr. Donna O’Shea, OB/GYN and chief medical officer for population health at UnitedHealthcare, said risk factors include any woman with a history of anxiety or mood disorders and a family history of depression. She added women from under-resourced communities are also at risk.
“There are some women who have little or no social support,” O’Shea pointed out. “If someone has a history or is currently using substances like drugs or alcohol, that they will face higher risks with the pregnancy and after a pregnancy.”
Carole Johnson, administrator of the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration, said the Biden administration has launched a new maternal health mental health hotline to help new parents, noting data show new moms fare better when they get help at the onset of symptoms.
“We have trained counselors who are available to help just be a safe space for new parents, pregnant women,” Johnson emphasized. “To have a conversation about what they’re experiencing and get the support that they need. “
Call 1-833-TLC-MAMA to speak to hotline counselors 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
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