2007 Assembly Joint Resolution 96
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: recognition of July as Postpartum Depression Awareness Month.
Whereas, postpartum depression is a disabling condition that affects 10 to 15 percent of mothers within a year after childbirth; and
Whereas, postpartum depression is the most common complication of childbearing; and
Whereas, postpartum depression affects women regardless of their age, economic status, racial or ethnic background, or the number of children they may have borne; and
Whereas, 28 percent of impoverished new mothers suffer from postpartum depression; and
Whereas, it is estimated that 800,000 new mothers are affected by postpartum depression each year; and
Whereas, mental health professionals believe that social, psychological, and biological factors all contribute to the onset of postpartum depression in new mothers; and
Whereas, the risk of postpartum depression is greater if the woman has a history of depression in general or previous postpartum depression, severe premenstrual syndrome, thyroid imbalance, difficulty conceiving, a non-supportive partner, and stress related to family, marriage, occupation, housing, and other events during pregnancy or after childbirth; and
Whereas, symptoms of postpartum depression can include: constant anxiety, restlessness, or irritability; sadness; excessive crying; mood swings; insomnia; confusion; inability to concentrate, remember, or make decisions; headaches, chest pains, racing heart, or hyperventilation; sudden change in appetite and weight; loss of interest or pleasure in activities; feelings of inadequacy, guilt, or worthlessness; emotional detachment and disinterest in the newborn; fear of harming the baby or oneself; and
Whereas, postpartum depression can have a negative impact on a new mother's ability to care for herself, her newborn, and other children living in the home; and
Whereas, children of mothers with postpartum depression are more likely to have cognitive delays, behavioral problems, or emotional and social dysfunction throughout their life; and
Whereas, the most severe cases of postpartum depression have resulted in new mothers committing suicide or harming their children; and
Whereas, postpartum depression is treatable and will resolve with professional counseling and medication; and
Whereas, the majority of soon-to-be mothers are not aware of the risk factors or symptoms associated with postpartum depression; and
Whereas, fewer than 15 percent of new mothers suffering from postpartum depression will receive treatment; and
Whereas, organizations such as Postpartum Support International are devoted to raising awareness and educating the public about postpartum depression, and working with mental health advocates and state and federal government officials to increase funding for research and prevention measures; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the assembly, the senate concurring, That the members of the Wisconsin Legislature do hereby recognize July as Postpartum Depression Awareness Month in Wisconsin; and, be it further
Resolved, That we acknowledge the negative impact postpartum depression has on victims and their families and encourage health care professionals to screen new mothers for this disabling condition.
