January 2010

Dear Colleague,

On December 7, 2009, the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology presented the 2009 ACNP Media Award to Brian Shanahan, CEO of MediSpin Inc., for his innovative contributions to professional education and public awareness of mental illness research and treatment. Emphasis was made to honor MediSpin’s role in informing the public about treatment and ongoing research in postpartum depression via MedEdPPD.org and for advancing the awareness of postpartum depression as a major public health issue. The ACNP Media Award honors a member of the print or electronic media who has made a major contribution to the education of the public about mental illness and substance abuse research and the positive impact of research on treatment. The award is an expression of appreciation from the College towards outstanding leaders in the media who provide complete, accurate, and unbiased information to our society about brain diseases. Past winners include distinguished writers and producers from National Public Radio, HBO, and US News and World Report.

This Emotional Life What does it mean to be happy and why is happiness so elusive? Premiering January 4th on PBS, This Emotional Life is a 3-part series that examines our relationships, how we define happiness, and the negative emotions that often hijack our quest for joy in life. The show will look at the science behind this pursuit and feature personal stories from real people and commentary from celebrities such as Larry David and Katie Couric. Check out the show's Web site for PPD-related blogs and resources and check your local TV listings for show times.

Medical Updates
Effect of maternal antepartum psychological therapy upon early infant temperament
Yang J, Shi SX, Chen Y, Yu W, Zhu YY, Tang YF, Lu W, Wang QQ, Luo JF, Cheng LN. Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi. 2009 Aug 4;89(29):2038-41.
This Chinese study aimed to determine if group psychotherapy for mothers in the second trimester would have an impact on how mothers rated their infants' temperament postpartum.

When depression complicates childbearing: guidelines for screening and treatment during antenatal and postpartum obstetric care.
Muzik M, Marcus SM, Heringhausen JE, Flynn H. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am. 2009 Dec;36(4):771-88, ix-x.
Because treatment may be complex in perinatal women, these recommendations suggest that a multidisciplinary team--including an obstetrician, psychiatrist, and pediatrician--is necessary to provide optimal care to women and their babies during this period.

Fetal sex, social support, and postpartum depression.
Xie RH, He G, Koszycki D, Walker M, Wen SW. Can J Psychiatry. 2009 Nov;54(11):750-6.
This Chinese study found an inverse association between social support and female infants, thereby increasing the risk of PPD in women who give birth to girls.

View More»



In The News
Mother's health vital to child's development
Des Moines Register.com, December 16, 2009
Iowa's 1st Five program is successfully identifying mothers and other caregivers who have depression and referring them for treatment and community services that can help entire families.

Postpartum Depression Strikes Fathers, Too
New York Times, December 7, 2009
It's more than just stress; hormonal changes and living with a depressed partner can up the chances for postpartum depression in dads.

Life After Baby: Some Fathers Suffer From Postpartum Depression
Fox News.com, December 2, 2009
The sudden responsibility of a newborn and the perceived loss of affection from their partner could result in anxiety or even serious depression for many new dads.

View More»
Events Calendar
This Emotional Life
When: January 4-6 Where: PBS stations

Perinatal Mood Disorders: An Advanced Skill-Building Workshop for Experienced Professionals
When: January 13
Where: Brooklyn, NY

Postpartum Support International 8th Annual Mystery Readers’ Lunch
When: January 16
Where: Santa Barbara, CA


Med Ed Resources
Marcé Society
The principal aim of the society is to promote, facilitate and communicate about research into all aspects of the mental health of women, their infants, and their partners around the time of childbirth.

Kempe Postpartum Depression Intervention Program
This Colorado clinic provides treatment for women with PPD and education about postpartum mood disorders for primary care and mental health professionals.

Online PPD Support Group
Moms can find support and a place to vent on the site's busy discussion forums. Look at the menu under "Communicate" for a link to the forums page.



This Month's Poll
As a health care provider, are you in favor of a public insurance option as part of national health care reform?
To participate in this month's poll click HERE.
Spread The Word
Click here to tell a colleague.

MedEdPPD.org Newsletter Archives
Missed last month's newsletter? Click here for a list of our previous newsletters.


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