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Trump will name more conservative judges. He may even pick a majority of the Supreme Court; Both sides react as Missouri reverses near-total abortion ban Literacy initiative to implement 250 new early-education activations in PA.

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President Biden asks Americans to turn down the temperature, House Speaker Mike Johnson promises an aggressive first 100 day agenda and Democratic governors vow to push back on Trump's plan for mass deportations.

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Texas women travel some of the longest distances for abortion care, Californians the shortest, rural living comes with mixed blessings for veterans, an ancient technique could curtail climate-change wildfires, and escape divisive politics on World Kindness Day.

Experts urge greater support for NC mothers facing postpartum depression

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Monday, September 30, 2024   

September is one of the busiest months for childbirth, but it also highlights the growing need for postpartum mental-health resources in North Carolina.

While the birth of a baby is often a joyous event, many new mothers experience unexpected emotional challenges. Experts are calling for increased support and awareness.

Dr. Donna O'Shea, OB/GYN and chief medical officer for population health at UnitedHealthcare, stressed that early intervention for postpartum depression can be life-saving for mothers.

"It can be very severe," said O'Shea, "in that of women who have this postpartum depression that 20% of them will face suicidal thoughts and even attempt self-harm."

Symptoms of postpartum depression include persistent sadness or anger, difficulty bonding with the baby, insomnia, and loss of appetite.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about one in eight mothers experience these symptoms.

According to America's Health Rankings, approximately 11% of women in North Carolina experience depressive symptoms each year.

O'Shea emphasized that while these conditions are common, stigma often discourages women from seeking the help they need.

She noted that effective treatments are available, especially when symptoms are recognized and addressed early.

"In any event, a woman can talk to her health-care professional if she's concerned or if she notices these changes," said O'Shea, "just to check in and see if medication would be helpful. There are a number of widely available medications which can help."

She said new treatments are available including a pill called zuranolone for severe postpartum depression.

She also encouraged new mothers to seek help early and to take advantage of the support networks provided by health-care plans, employee-assistance programs, and local mental-health resources.



Disclosure: UnitedHealthcare contributes to our fund for reporting on Health Issues. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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