Postpartum depression: a review for perinatal social workers

Abstract

Postpartum depression is a common and treatable clinical syndrome which effects up to fifty percent of all women and which can best be considered as a triad of disorders. Postpartum blues, postpartum affective disorders or major depressions, and postpartum psychosis have distinct symptoms with corresponding implications for social work interventions and treatment strategies. The role of prevention can be pivotal in terms of reducing negative impacts of psychological problems after birth and minimizing adverse consequences for the new baby and all family members.