New research suggests that the COVID-19 pandemic may have worsened maternal mental health outcomes. Researchers from the University of Maryland surveyed 670 post-partum patients at the height of the pandemic in 2020. Approximately 1 in 3 met the criteria for post-partum depression, triple the pre-pandemic rate of 1 in 8. Additionally, about 1 in 5 experienced symptoms of major depressive disorder. Of those who met the criteria for post-partum depression or major depressive disorder, 18.75% also experienced thoughts of self-harm. Worrying about contracting COVID-19 was a significant risk factor for developing depression. Understanding how to provide social support for post-partum mothers – especially during public health emergencies – is important for improving maternal mental health outcomes. To learn more, see the study in BMC Research Notes.
Rate of Post-Partum Depression May Have Tripled During COVID-19 Pandemic
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About Mental Illness
A mental illness is a medical condition that disrupts a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others and daily functioning.
What is Recovery
Recovery from serious mental illness is not only possible, but for many people living with mental illness today, probable. The notion of recovery involves a variety of perspectives.
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About Mental Illness
A mental illness is a medical condition that disrupts a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others and daily functioning.
What is Recovery
Recovery from serious mental illness is not only possible, but for many people living with mental illness today, probable. The notion of recovery involves a variety of perspectives.
In Need Of Help Or Support?
Call the NAMI Helpline Mon - Fri from 10am-10pm:
1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
Or text "HELPLINE" to 62640
You can find more In Crisis information:
In Crisis Resources or email us at helpline@nami.org.