Journal of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease

Table of Contents - August 2012 - Volume 3, Issue 04  

Rapid Communication

Current considerations of the effects of untreated maternal perinatal depression and the National Perinatal Depression Initiative

P. Halla1 c1

a1 SAHealth, National Perinatal Depression Initiative, South Australia

Abstract

Postnatal and antenatal depression present significant public health concerns. Current opinion on the use of these terms is noted. Previous research findings demonstrate that detrimental effects of untreated maternal depression/anxiety are potentially severe and impact on the whole family; longer-term effects on child development are described. Australia has responded to such overwhelming empirical evidence by the implementation of the National Perinatal Depression Initiative. Key objectives and a brief overview of the work in progress of this Initiative are offered.

(Received November 29 2011)

(Revised December 15 2011)

(Accepted January 03 2012)

(Online publication January 17 2012)

Key words

Correspondence:

c1 Address for correspondence: Dr P. Hall, Mental Health Unit, SA Health, PO Box 287, Rundle Mall, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia. (Email Pauline.Hall@health.sa.gov.au)

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