There has been much attention given to postpartum depression recently since the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force is now recommending screening of all pregnant women for postpartum depression both prenatally and postpartum. This is great news and a great stride in bringing much needed attention to an under-addressed public health crisis. That being said, when the general term of postpartum depression (PPD) is used, it can be misleading and the spectrum of perinatal mood & anxiety disorders can be overlooked.

Although postpartum psychosis may be considered a rare perinatal mood & anxiety disorder, it affects many women and families worldwide. More awareness, education and research are needed in the area of postpartum psychosis as well as properly identifying and diagnosis the illness. As things move forward in addressing the public health crisis of perinatal mental health, it is important that postpartum psychosis not be forgotten.

Of course, many of you know that my efforts are to increase the awareness and understanding of postpartum psychosis. I know many others are striving to do the same. Some of us are already joining each other in our efforts. If any others are interested in getting more involved in addressing postpartum psychosis, particularly in the United States, please let me know.

I know the year 2016 is going to be a good year in moving forward in addressing perinatal mental health.