How to Support the Maternal Depression Screening Bill
New legislation will help moms and families get the help they need
Please join the Seleni Institute, State Senator Liz Krueger, PPD activist Paige Bellenbaum and the Postpartum Resource Center of New York and urge two key New York State Senators to support the Maternal Depression Screening Bill.
As many as 1 in 5 mothers experience postpartum depression and yet the health care system does almost nothing to support them and get them (and their families) help. The Maternal Depression Bill will change that by improving postpartum depression education, screening and offering resources and treatment options.
Today and tomorrow are critical days to ensure that these two key senators bring the bill to a vote in the Senate.
We urge you to take a short break from your day and make two one-minute phone calls and spread the word within your social networks. Doing so can make a huge difference in the lives of New York families. Instructions are below.
Call Senator Dean Skelos, Majority Coalition Leader, (518) 455-3171
Call Senator Tom Libous, Deputy Majority Coalition Leader, (518) 455-2677
You can leave this message: Hello, my name is __________ and I’m calling to ask Senator Skelos/Libous to allow a vote on the Maternal Depression bill (S7234-A). This critical bill will help mothers who suffer from maternal depression get the help they need for themselves, and their babies and families. Please tell the Senator to allow a vote on this important bill. Thank you.
(Note: if you are a constituent of either Senator, let them know that when you call. Sen. Skelos represents parts of Nassau; Sen. Libous represents Broome, Tioga, Chenango & Delaware counties: http://www.nysenate.gov/senators)
Tweet: New Yorkers: Take 1 minute to ensure that new moms are screened and treated for postpartum depression http://ow.ly/xT6uM
Post on Facebook: As many as 20% of new moms experience postpartum depression and yet the healthcare system does little to support them. Please take 1 minute out of your day today to call a senator and support the NY Maternal Depression Bill. http://ow.ly/xT6uM
Thank you!
Seleni is one of only a few organizations in the United States offering specialized training in treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), and it's the only training that includes in-depth instruction on treating perinatal loss.
At the Seleni Institute, we focus on destigmatizing mental illness. And, because 90% of those who die by suicide have a mental illness that has not been diagnosed or that has not been adequately treated, it is imperative that we understand and support all, including mothers, who are suffering with suicidal ideation.
Building bridges with others can be transformative and restorative and can remind a new mother that she is not alone. And, these affective connections can strengthen her understanding that she can be cherished, loved, and soothed and, therefore, that she can cherish, love, and soothe.
Pediatricians are in a powerful position to strengthen the mental health of the whole family.
Novel medication could provide faster – and better – relief than antidepressants
Professional treatment helps and women should be supported in seeking it
Many insurance plans will be required to cover perinatal depression screening
Let's all join this critical conversation
Women deserve complete information to make these important medical decisions
New law will increase screening for PPD and other postpartum mood disorders