NEW
Review from the Consumer Connection,
Newsletter of the Consumer and Patient Health Information Section of the Medical Library Association.
Sebastian, Linda, A.R.N.P. Overcoming Postpartum Depression & Anxiety, 3rd.ed.
Addicus Books, 2016. 166p. $19.95. ISBN 9781943886005.
Most women find pregnancy and birth to be positive, happy experiences. Some, however, feel overwhelmed, sad, and unable to cope with their new status as mothers. Although fairly common, many women are unaware of postpartum depression and related conditions. They feel inadequate and ashamed of their inability to cope with parenthood. Their families and spouses are affected as well.
The latest edition of this brief handbook will provide useful, accessible information for new parents, families, and health care practitioners. The author, a nurse practitioner who experienced postpartum depression, offers an overview of the topic as well as specific information about the blues, depression, anxiety disorders, psychosis, and obsessive compulsive disorder. She discusses symptoms, treatment options, and help for fathers and families. She covers medication, the various types of psychotherapy, and alternative therapies, along with self-help techniques (nutrition, exercise, support groups). She also includes information for fathers and families and a discussion of future pregnancies. A bibliography and resource list provide further information for readers.
This is an excellent resource for consumer health and public library collections. It brings an important, often overlooked topic, to the public.
Barbara Bibel,
retired from the Oakland Public Library.
