AJR96: Joint Resolution Text

LRB-3878/1

DAK:bjk:nwn

2007 - 2008 LEGISLATURE

2007 Assembly JOINT RESOLUTION 96

February 4, 2008 - Introduced by Representatives Van Roy, Sheridan, Musser, Boyle, Townsend, Turner, Owens, Wasserman, Kerkman, Albers, A. Ott, Mursau, M. Williams, Hixson, Petrowski, Moulton, Davis, Nerison, Murtha and Berceau, cosponsored by Senators Darling, Lassa, Olsen and Roessler. Referred to Committee on Rules.

AJR96,1,1 Relating to: recognition of July as Postpartum Depression Awareness Month.

AJR96,1,3 Whereas, postpartum depression is a disabling condition that affects 10 to 15 percent of mothers within a year after childbirth; and

AJR96,1,5 Whereas, postpartum depression is the most common complication of childbearing; and

AJR96,1,8 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

AJR96,1,10 Whereas, 28 percent of impoverished new mothers suffer from postpartum depression; and

AJR96,1,12 Whereas, it is estimated that 800,000 new mothers are affected by postpartum depression each year; and

AJR96,1,15 Whereas, mental health professionals believe that social, psychological, and biological factors all contribute to the onset of postpartum depression in new mothers; and

AJR96,2,5 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

AJR96,2,12 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

AJR96,2,14 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

AJR96,2,17 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

AJR96,2,19 Whereas, the most severe cases of postpartum depression have resulted in new mothers committing suicide or harming their children; and

AJR96,2,21 Whereas, postpartum depression is treatable and will resolve with professional counseling and medication; and

AJR96,2,23 Whereas, the majority of soon-to-be mothers are not aware of the risk factors or symptoms associated with postpartum depression; and

AJR96,2,25 Whereas, fewer than 15 percent of new mothers suffering from postpartum depression will receive treatment; and

AJR96,3,4 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

AJR96,3,7 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

AJR96,3,10 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.

AJR96,3,11 (End)