Myth:

Age, education, culture and socioeconomic status determine a woman’s chances of perinatal depression.

Fact:

Perinatal depression and anxiety can occur during pregnancy and up to the first year after the birth or adoption of a baby.

It can happen to ANY WOMAN!

Myths:

• Pregnancy reduces the risk of depression in women.
• Having perinatal depression means that a woman is weak and a bad mother.

Facts:

• Perinatal depression can be treated successfully.
• Perinatal depression often goes undiagnosed because many of the discomforts during pregnancy and after childbirth are similar to the signs and symptoms of depression.
• Feeling low or sad after having a new baby can be due to the mother’s body adjusting to childbirth.