Putting a mental health team right where women get care before, during, and after new babies addresses a leading cause of maternal mortality.
PHILADELPHIA --Mental health and substance use are challenges for many moms. In Philadelphia, it's the leading cause for a mother's death in baby's first year.
"First-time moms are very insecure because they don't have any experience," notes Dr. Gail Herrine, a Temple Health obstetrician-gynecologist. That's why Dr. Herrine says mental health screenings are done several times before and after baby arrives. And for signs of depression, like extreme sadness.
"Feeling guilty, feeling like their failing at motherhood, unusually irritable or angry. But also if they have very little interest in things that they usually enjoy," Dr. Herrine says. When help is needed, Temple Health now has a mental health team right in the Women & Families hospital. Psychiatrist Dr.Sarah Tabi and therapist Laura Cardona-Cruz are just steps away from obstetricians and pediatricians.
"Once they're done with their ob-gyn visit, I'm able to meet with the patient, and talk a little bit about their concerns," Cardona-Cruz explains. They help separate the milder "baby blues" from depression, which can occur from early pregnancy to baby's first birthday, triggered by many pressures.
"What does your social support look like? Anyone helping them at home? Do they have a job? How are they financially supported?
" she asks. "Families usually change their place of living during pregnancy because they need a larger place," Dr. Herrine observes. Relationship problems, difficult pregnancies or deliveries, and giving birth to multiples also raise the risks, as does previous anxiety or depression.
"Therapy can be just as helpful as medication," Dr Herrine says. "Women with untreated depression and untreated anxiety have higher risks than whatever potential adverse effects they get from the medication. You need to feel a sense of stability in your life," Cardona-Cruz says. Care isn't just available at the hospital, but also through virtual appointments. It all makes it easier for women to stick with it.
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