Perinatal Depression: Investing in Our Mothers Before It\u27s Too Late

Currently, there is no consistent, universal screening process within the United States healthcare system that considers the mental health of a new mother. Mandatory screening for perinatal depressive symptoms would improve the lives of new mothers, children, and their families nationwide. Home-visiting programs, such as the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) program supported by Healthy Families America, should be universal and available in every locale in the U.S. Individual state policies within these programs should be tailored to meet the needs of each unique mother, child, and family. Early, nurturing relationships are critical to a child\u27s development. Caring for the mother\u27s well-being is the first step in ensuring a successful life trajectory for children. The Healthy Families America strategy focuses on promoting positive parent-child relationships and healthy attachment by using strengths-based and person-centered approaches