Leaders encourage postpartum depression screenings, faster referrals to mental health services

(WHTM) — As the state legislature works to create a new budget, Governor Josh Shapiro wants the state to spend more on mental health screenings for new mothers.

His proposed budget includes money for universal postpartum depression screenings.

State health officials say postpartum depression can develop weeks or months after the baby is born.

Symptoms can range from hopelessness to mood swings to thoughts of self-harm.

“Pregnancy related depression has a profound effects not just on mothers and families as Stephen shared, it’s a community issue,” Dr. Debra Bogan, Pennsylvania health secretary, said. “We have to address it. And we know there are effective treatments and we want to ensure that all mothers who need treatment have access to them.”

Postpartum depression impacts one in every eight mothers, state leaders say.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health has resources available here.