Bill makes it easier for new mothers to treat 'baby blues'
By Tiffany Brooks
The family of Cynthia Wachenheim, a Manhattan woman who jumped to her death with her infant strapped to her body, is supporting the reintroduction of legislation aimed at combating maternal depression.
The Maternal Depression Bill (S.7234/A.9610) would provide education promote screening and treatment referrals for postpartum depression and other maternal depression disorders, creating the state's first systemwide screening and referral procedure. Prenatal depression, "baby blues," postpartum anxiety, and postpartum psychosis are all examples of maternal depression that would be addressed under this bill.
The bill passed both houses last session but was vetoed last year due to technical concerns regarding its impact on insurance companies. It has since been revised by its sponsors.
"Our family will feel the pain of losing Cindy for the rest of our lives," said Deborah and Ron Wachenheim, the mother and husband of Cindy. "Our hope is that this legislation will help prevent other families from needlessly losing loved one by educating them about maternal depression and mood disorders so they can recognize the signs and access the appropriate and effective treatment."
http://www.legislativegazette.com/Articles-Top-Stories-c-2014-05-27-88076.113122-Bill-makes-it-easier-for-new-mothers-to-treat-baby-blues.html