PPD, find out what it means to me: Why improved access to mental health care is necessary for new mothers in the early postpartum period

Abstract

Postpartum depression can negatively impact a woman's life well past the initial postpartum period. The struggle often lies in the difficulty to diagnose, and then adequately treat the condition. Further, with such limited unpaid maternity leave offered federally through the Family Medical Leave Act, women often struggle to have enough time and financial resources to access necessary treatment. This Note proposes alternative options for supporting women who suffer from postpartum depression in offering extended and fully paid maternity leave for private and public employees that is funded by contributions split between the employer and employee.