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Michigan families urged to learn more during Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders Awareness Month

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 8, 2018

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112

LANSING, Mich. – As part of May is Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders Awareness (PMAD) Month, Michigan women and families are being urged to learn more about PMAD and available resources by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Division of Maternal and Infant Health.

PMAD, historically known as postpartum depression, affect approximately 23,000 Michigan women and their families each year. Symptoms can vary and include depression, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, guilt, irritability, anger, difficulty sleeping and eating, feeling disconnected from one’s baby and experiencing frightening and intrusive thoughts. PMAD can appear during pregnancy and up to two years after a baby is born.

“PMAD primarily affects birth mothers, but can also affect other members of the family including fathers, partners and caregivers,” said Dr. Eden Wells, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services chief medical executive. “Education is important in helping reduce stigma about the disorder and is essential in improving the mental health and well-being of women and their families.”

To help increase understanding of the disorders, Gov. Rick Snyder has proclaimed May as PMAD Awareness Month and the Michigan Statewide Perinatal Mood Disorder Coalition is hosting its annual Walk on the Capitol Wednesday, May 9, noon – 2 p.m., at the state Capitol.

For more information about PMAD and available resources, visit the Maternal Infant Health Program website.

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