Rep. Clark Praises Plan To Ensure Postpartum Depression Coverage

WASHINGTON, DC -- The Federal government issued a recommendation that women should be screened for depression during pregnancy and after giving birth, allowing for coverage of such screenings under the Affordable Care Act.

That recommendation by the U.S. Preventative Task Force drew praises from U.S. Congresswoman Katherine Clark, who represents Framingham, as it brings a national spotlight to the treatment of postpartum depression.

Rep. Clark introduced the Bringing Postpartum Depression Out of the Shadows Act last summer.

“The success of our families begins with the health of moms and babies, and today’s announcement is a major turning point in how we care for families,” said Clark. “Pregnant women and new moms need to know that they are not alone, that their suffering matters, and that postpartum depression can be treated. I hope Congress will follow this example and ensure that health providers have the resources they need by passing the Bringing Postpartum Depression Out of the Shadows Act.”

Nationwide, an estimated 1 in 7 new mothers experience postpartum depression.

Postpartum depression can last for months or even years, occasionally transforming into a chronic depressive disorder. It can increase risk for anxiety, cognitive impairment, guilt, and self-blame. Children of mothers with untreated postpartum depression may have difficulties eating and sleeping, and often experience delays in language development.

Additionally, infants may develop passivity, withdrawal, and self-regulatory behavior as a response to maternal disengagement. Postpartum depression is treatable in 90 percent of cases.

Clark’s Bringing Postpartum Depression Out of the Shadows Act would build upon existing state and local efforts by providing federal grants to assist states in developing programs to better screen and treat postpartum depression.

Read Clark’s bill here.

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Photo courtesy of Petroni Media Company