Center for Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Having a baby is one of life's most exciting experiences. It can also be challenging. A new mother may experience hormonal and emotional fluctuations, as well as stress and the sense of responsibility that comes along with integrating a new person into her life.

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) such as postpartum anxiety (PPA) and postpartum depression (PPD) affect 1 in 7 women with symptoms that range from mild to severe. They are the most common complications of childbirth, and they are temporary and treatable.

The Center for Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, part of RWJBarnabas Health Medical Group, cares for women who are pregnant, postpartum or who are coping with the loss of a baby. Our clinicians are certified in Perinatal Mental Health by Postpartum Support International.

The Program

The best treatment for postpartum depression and postpartum anxiety is delivered through a combination of approaches. This may include individual therapy, medication, support group therapy or all three.

Our treatment program includes evidence-based techniques to help you manage the postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression, such as:

• Individual counseling (psychotherapy)
• Couples therapy
• Therapy for dads
• Group therapy
• Support groups
• Medication management
• Mother-Infant bonding classes
• Psychiatric evaluations

A multidisciplinary group of maternal mental health experts from psychiatry, nursing and social work make up the care team. Our clinicians are certified in perinatal mental health by Postpartum Support International.

Most insurance plans cover these appointments, although a copayment may be required. We offer treatment up until 1 year postpartum.

Symptoms of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Many women experience the “baby blues,” or feelings of depression and anxiety in the first 2 to 3 weeks after childbirth. If the symptoms persist past that period or worsen for an extended period of time, it may be time to get some help. Symptoms of PMADs include:

• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
• Anxiety all or most of the time or panic attacks
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or shame
• Sadness/crying frequently
• Loss of pleasure/interest in things you used to enjoy
• Obsessive, racing, scary thoughts
• Excessive irritability, anger or rage
• Fear of being left alone with the baby, or that you are not a good enough mother

You are not alone. The sooner you contact us for help, the sooner you will start to feel better.

Locations

Center for Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center

Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
94 Old Short Hills Road
Livingston, NJ 07039
973-322-9501

Center for Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders in Eatontown

200 Wyckoff Road
Suite 3500
Eatontown, NJ 07724
862-781-3755

Resources

• Maternity blog. Read about pregnancy and health.
• Maternity patient stories. Discover how RWJBarnabas Health cares for pregnant mothers and their newborns.
• Postpartum Progress. The world’s most widely read blog dedicated to maternal mental illness.