New resource available to help women struggling with postpartum depression

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – According to Unity Point Health, more women give birth during August than during any other month.  And with one in five new moms experiencing post-partum depression, the number of new moms in southcentral Kentucky now struggling with depression is likely higher than any other time of the year.

But now, there are new resources available to help mothers who are struggling. The FDA has recently approved the first-ever pill for postpartum depression. Its called Zurzuvae.

We spoke with an OB-GYN who tells us this is a remarkable breakthrough for women who suffer from severe depression.

Dr. Donna O’Shea says “We now have available medicine that you can take in a pill form, and within three days you feel like a new person. In the past, the last time there was medicine, approved by FDA for this, it was in 2019 and it was a 60 hour infusion and you had to be in the hospital.”

She also offered some tips for anyone who may be struggling with postpartum depression.

First, know that it’s okay to talk about how you’re feeling, even when it’s tough. Talking about mental health challenges should be as normal as talking about a backache. When we open up, we make it easier for everyone to seek the help they might need without fear.

Evaluate benefits and side effects of any treatment option, including the new postpartum depression pill, which has been shown to improve depressive symptoms within 3 days and may be covered by your health plan.

Inform yourself. Familiarize yourself with emotional changes that can come with pregnancy and the postpartum period. Learning about common experiences and knowing when things may be veering into more serious territory can be immensely helpful.

Seek support: Don’t hesitate to ask your personal or professional networks for help. A trusted healthcare provider can guide you to the right level of support, such as talking to an expert in person or virtually, or joining a network or discussion group about this issue. Your family and friends can be there for you by listening, offering the voice of experience, or even helping with household chores to allow you time to rest. Remember that taking action early is a proactive step toward maintaining your mental health. It’s a sign of strength.