Postpartum Progress

Family Groove Selects PSI As Charity of the Month

The Family Groove has chosen Postpartum Support International as its charity of the month.  Very cool!  Check out this story they did, including an interview with Wendy Davis, PSI's Program Director.

PSI Hosts Free Nationwide Call This Week for Moms and Dads Looking for Answers

Every Monday and Wednesday Postpartum Support International has free open informational sessions via toll-free conference call that anyone can join to learn more about postpartum depression and related illnesses, talk about symptoms or concerns, and discuss local resources.  Mondays are for Dads and Wednesdays are for Moms.  You can talk from the privacy of your own home and there is no need to pre-register or to give your name.  To find out more or learn how to join one of the calls, click here.

PSI Announces Wendy Davis as Program Director

PSI has announced the creation of a new paid position of Program Director that will be filled by Wendy Davis.  Wendy has served as a member of the board of PSI and coordinator chairperson and has been a PSI volunteer for more than 10 years.  Congrats Wendy!

PSI Conference in LA a Big Hit!

My trip to the PSI Annual Conference was, as it always is, inspiring and energizing.  Merrill Sparago, Diana Lynn Barnes and Kimberly Wong did an amazing job putting this event together.  I just don't know how they could accomplish it while also doing their day jobs and attending to their personal lives!!  Even after four years of attending this conference and five years of writing this blog, I always learn a lot of new things.

I got to see (and hug!) people that I talk to all the time via email, Twitter, Postpartum Progress and/or Facebook but only get to see once a year in person (Shout outs to Jen Stoll, Diane Ashton, Kim Rogers, Chris Raines, Lynne McIntyre, Ilyene Barsky, Cathy Dore, Gina Keefe, Heidi Koss-Nobel, George Parnham, the Gibbs family, Christi Hibbert, Stephanie Morales, Andrea Zas Jimenez and many others!).  I got to meet great new people, many I was aware of but had never had the chance to meet in person (So pleased to meet you Adrienne Einarson, Shirley Halvorson, Brian Kinstler, Misty Wainwright, Kellie Haworth, Wade Bowen, Will Courtenay, Emily Dossett, Deborah Hayes, Vivienne Burt and many others!)  And I was, of course, so happy to see the whole PSI board (Ruta, Wendy, Mary Lou, Birdie, Kimberly, Brian, Yvonne, Mary Joan, Linda, Merrill, Kimberly, Pec and our office hero Devani) and members of the President's Advisory Council (Susan, Sonia, George, Cheryl, Diana, Mary Ellen, Jane).  I wish I could list the name of every person I met because it was such a treat to see each and every one of you.

I wish all of you could have been there to see the amazing group of dedicated people who care so much about women with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.  Rather than feeling you are alone, you could see there is a whole "army" of wonderful and compassionate people who know exactly what you are going through and who look forward to helping you.

It has taken me a few days to get back to blogging.  Between the jet lag, the post-conference letdown and the fever/sore throat I acquired (why can't I fly on an airplane without coming down with something?!), I've had to sleep it off the last few days.  But I think I'm getting back to full steam so get ready for what I hope are some interesting and educational posts the next few days.

Free Phone Chat Wednesday for Anyone with Questions on PPD

Don't forget ... if you have questions, Postpartum Support International can help.  This Wednesday PSI is offering its weekly free, open phone session called "Chat with the Expert".  You can join the call to talk or just to listen to others discuss resources, symptoms, options and general information with an experienced member of Postpartum Support International.  You can talk from the privacy of your own home and there is no need to pre-register or give your name.  Sessions are informational only and open to anyone with questions and concerns about themselves, a loved one, friend or family member.  To get information on how to participate in Wednesday's call, or any of the other phone sessions offered, visit http://www.postpartum.net/info-sessions/

 

 

Seeking Items for PSI Silent Auction

On Thursday, August 6th, the PSI Annual Conference's Banquet will be held at the Millenium Biltmore Hotel in downtown LA.  This special event will include a cocktail reception, keynote speaker, musical entertainment and a silent auction.  The auction is an important fundraising event for Postpartum Support International.  PSI is asking for items valued at or great than $100.00.   If you have something to donate, or you know of local merchants or friends that would be interested, please contact Linda Klempner at lklempner@verizon.net or 201-692-9496. 

Registration Opens for PSI Annual Conference

Registration is now open for the Postpartum Support International Annual Conference, held this year in sunny Los Angeles.  The event is August 4-7, with the pre-conference on the 4th and 5th, and the main conference on the 6th and 7th.  It is co-hosted this year by PSI and the Perinatal Mental Health Task Force of LA County and will be held at the California Endowment.  To register, click here!

The conference hotel is the Millenium Biltmore.  A discounted room rate of $145 per night has been reserved for conference attendees.  Please request the group rate for "Postpartum Support International Conference".    To book online with group discount please go to:  https://reservations.synxis.com/lbe/rez.aspx?hotel=11535&arrive=08%2F03%2F2009&nights=4&adult=1&group=PSIAUG2009&promo=&iata=&step=1

Dads, Get Answers About PPD Tonight Via Conference Call

Men who are concerned their wives or partners may be suffering a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder like postpartum depression have the opportunity to talk to an expert this evening as part of the free Postpartum Support International Chat with the Experts for Dads conference call that happens each Monday night.  You can get answers to your questions.  There is no need to register to participate or to give your name if you prefer to be anonymous.  Visit http://postpartum.net/info-sessions to get the access code for the call.

Get Your DVRs and Your TV Dinners Ready

Don't forget this Thursday night (tomorrow) is the episode of Private Practice on ABC featuring a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder, and a link after the show to a new PSA on ABC.com.  The show airs at 10pm Eastern.

PSI Seeks Development Chair for Board of Directors

PSI is seeking to fill its position of Development Chair on its board of directors.  The Postpartum Support International (PSI) Development/Fundraising Chairperson chairs the Development and Fundraising Committee, whose responsibility is to actively seek funding sources for PSI programs and operations through private donations, grant opportunities, fundraising events, and corporate or foundation sponsorship of PSI projects.  It is expected that a minimum of four grant proposals per year will be submitted.   The Committee will reach out to PSI members on an annual basis to request donations and to request information on possible funding/grant sources and partnerships.

The Development and Fundraising Committee's job is not simply to raise money.  It is responsible for overseeing the organization's overall fundraising and, in particular, the fundraising done by the board.  To accomplish this, its responsibilities are:

• To work with staff and the board of directors to establish a fundraising plan that incorporates a series of appropriate vehicles, such as special events, sponsorships, grants, direct mail appeals, product sales, etc.
• To work with fundraising volunteers in their efforts to raise money
• To take the lead in certain types of outreach efforts, such as hosting fundraising events and advising other PSI members who wish to host fundraising events
• To work with other board committees to create cohesive programs for outreach and fundraising
• To ensure involvement of all board members in fundraising, and
• To monitor fundraising efforts to be sure that ethical practices are in place, that donors are acknowledged appropriately and that fundraising efforts are cost-effective.

As with all members of the PSI board of directors, this is a volunteer position.

PSI is the world's largest non-profit organization dedicated to helping women suffering from perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression, the most common complication of childbirth.  PSI was founded in 1987 to increase awareness among public and professional communities about the emotional difficulties that women can experience during and after pregnancy.  The organization offers support, reliable information, best practice training and volunteer coordinators in al 50 US states as well as 26 countries around the world.  Working together with volunteers, caring professionals, researchers, legislators and others, PSI is committed to eliminating stigma and ensure that compassionate and quality care is available to all families.  To learn more, call PSI at 800-944-4PPD or visit www.postpartum.net.

If you are interested in this position and have demonstrable fundraising or non-profit development experience, please email me at stonecallis@msn.com or Wendy Davis at wdavis@postpartum.net.  We will then forward you a simple application for consideration.  Thank you.

 

PSI Needs Spanish-Speaking Volunteers

The Postpartum Support International Spanish Warmline provides services to Spanish-speaking women and their families at 1-800-944-4PPD, ext.1. Spanish-speaking callers hear a outgoing message in Spanish, and then can leave a message which is returned by one of our supportive volunteers. We need more Spanish-speaking volunteers! Volunteers can help by retrieving and answering messages from the support line or by helping to find resources for Latina moms and families

PSI offers free membership and training for bilingual volunteers who want to be part of this wonderful team.  You don't need to be a mental health professional to volunteer; they can train you to provide pregnant and postpartum women the social support, information and reassurance that is at the heart of our volunteer programs.  

Please forward this email to anyone you think would be a good candidate for becoming a PSI Spanish-speaking volunteer. Wendy Davis is happy to talk to anyone with questions. Let her know if you would like to have a conversation in Spanish.  You can reach her at wdavis@postpartum.net. 

Greetings from PSI Annual Retreat

 

Just got back from the annual Postpartum Support International board of directors retreat in Santa Barbara.  May I say how thankful I am to Jane Honikman for founding the organization there?  It's like being in paradise.  Thanks to Mary Lou Kravetz for hosting us at her beautiful home.  I absolutely loved being able to go outside and pick an orange or lemon off of a tree.  It was like being a kid in a candy store.

I want you to know what a dedicated group this is.  They are ALL volunteers, and put in countless hours on top of their day jobs to help the women who suffer from postpartum depression and related illnesses and those who care for them.  I am very excited about all the projects we talked about.  If you know ANYONE willing to donate to PSI to help us get everything done, please send them here.  PSI helps millions of people on a shoestring budget.  In fact, I'm not even sure we could afford shoestrings ...

On the couch from left to right:  Linda Klempner, Pec Indman, Kimberly Wong, Merrill Sparago and Mary Lou Kravetz  Standing from left to right:  Birdie Meyers, Jane Honikman, yours truly (with way too much hair), Wendy Davis and Yvonne Moore

PSI Call for Abstracts

Attached is the call for abstracts for the 2009 Postpartum Support International annual conference in Los Angeles.  Deadline is Feb. 15, 2009.  Download 2009_call_for_abstracts[1]

Big Events This Weekend to Support PSI

I've told you about these events in the past, but now that they're coming up quick, just a reminder:

This Saturday, November 1st, the 6th Annual Mystery Readers Luncheon will be held in Santa Barbara to support Postpartum Support International.  The event will be held at the La Cumbre Country Club and will feature author Erik O'Dowd.  Tickets to the lunch are $75 per person.  Please contact psioffice@postpartum.net for reservations or more info.

Also this weekend, country music star Wade Bowen will host hist 11th annual "Wade Bowen Classic" concert and celebrity golf tournament.  Proceeds will benefit Postpartum Support International.  An all-star concert kicks off the two-day event at the Heart of Texas Fairground General Exhibits Building in Waco at 7pm on Sunday, November 2nd.  Participating musicians include Wade Bowen, Cross Canadian Ragweed, Stoney LaRue, and Randy Rogers & Brady Black.  The golf tournament will be held Monday, the 3rd, at noon at the Cottonwood Creek Golf Course in Waco.  Click here for tickets to the concert, which are $15.

If you can't attend either event but would still like to support Postpartum Support International, which in turn supports women around the world suffering from perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, please click here and donate.  Every little bit helps and would be most welcome.  Thank you!

Wade Bowen Classic Celebrity Golf Tournament & Concert Will Benefit PSI

Country music artist Wade Bowen will host his 11th annual "Wade Bowen Classic" concert and celebrity golf tournament on November 2 and 3 in Waco, TX.  This year's event benefits Postpartum Support International.  How awesome is that? 

An all-star concert kicks off the two-day event at the Heart of Texas Fairground GE Building in Waco at 7pm on November 2nd.  The concert will feature Wade Bowen, as well as Cross Canadian Ragweed.  More "surprise" guests will be announced in the coming weeks.  The golf tournament the next day will be a two-man scramble and will take place at the beautiful Cottonwood Creek Golf Course in Waco.

"I'm so proud of how this event has grown and how everyone has come together to raise so much money," said Bowen.  "This year we are partnering with PSI, which hits really close to home for me because my wife battled postpartum depression after the birth of our first child, and I know how severely it can affect families.  Believe me when I tell you that it is a cause that needs more awareness."

Bowen recently released his new album "If We Ever Make It Home" featuring the song "Turn on the Lights," which he wrote about his family's personal experience with postpartum depression.  Watch him perform it live here.

Tickets for both components of the weekend are available at http://www.wadebowen.com/bowenclassic and start at $15.  Over the past two years, the Bowen Classic has raised nearly $60,000.  For questions regarding sponsorship or group ticket rates, please contact "Big Hearted Babes" at www.bigheartedbabes.com.   

PSI Mystery Readers Luncheon on Nov 1

Postpartum Support International will be hosting its 6th annual Mystery Readers Luncheon in Santa Barbara on Saturday, November 1.  The event will be held at the La Cumbre Country Club, and the featured author is Erik O'Dowd, who first novel "Gaviota" has recently been published.  Eric will speak, and there will be a silent auction and a chance to buy Erik's book and get it signed.  Tickets to the lunch are $75 per person, and the proceeds benefit PSI.  Please contact the PSI office at psioffice@postpartum.net for reservations or more information.

Urgent News on the Melanie Blocker Stokes MOTHERS ACT

Urgent news from Susan Dowd Stone, LCSW, chair of the President's Advisory Council of Postpartum Support International, after Senator Tom Coburn (R-OK) once again blocked a vote on the Melanie Blocker Stokes MOTHERS Act this week:

"While our Senate heroes, U. S. Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Richard Durbin (D-IL), co-sponsors of The Melanie Blocker Stokes MOTHERS Act, and their supporters lost a battle in the U.S. Senate this week, we have not lost the war against postpartum depression and services for our nation's mothers. Indeed, this setback is not due to the lack of national support for the legislation, but a defiant blockade by one person, Senator Tom Coburn (R-OK), who has singlehandedly obstructed this and other legislation by using a procedural loophole never meant to overturn the will of the people.

While Senator Coburn himself failed to appear at yesterday's hearing, sparing himself and his conscience further consideration of facts which would have made such action impossible, he sent a surrogate whose mission was to continue his objection to the legislation, thereby "denying relief to hundreds of thousands of mothers who suffer from the condition each year" according to Senator Menendez.

Despite the setback, Senator Menendez reaffirmed his commitment to continue this critical battle. "Hundreds of thousands of women across the country suffer at the hands of postpartum depression every year, and they deserve better than the ideological games being played with legislation intended to bring them relief," he said. "This is a cause I am committed to seeing through, and I will continue to stand up on behalf of mothers suffering from this condition until the blockade is cleared."

Among the MOTHERS Act's champions is former New Jersey First Lady Mary Jo Codey, Carol Blocker, mother of the woman for whom the legislation was named who died from postpartum illness (who prays everyday this bill will pass), Brooke Shields, who spoke passionately in support of the legislation at a Capitol Hill Press Conference, Valerie Plame Wilson, who wrote about her experiences with postpartum depression in her best selling book "Fair Game", Joan Mudd who lost her daugher to postpartum depression and formed the Jennifer Mudd Houghtaling Foundation in Chicago, IL, and many others who remain staunchly committed to this issue.

Congressman Bobby L. Rush who sponsored the bill's counterpart in the U.S. House of Representatives, saw it pass in October 2007 with a nearly unanimous bipartisan vote. It would likely have enjoyed the same fate in the U.S. Senate long before now if legislators were as interested in representing the will of their constituents as they were in continuing current political stalemates that serve no one.

"The effects of pregnancy and postpartum depression and anxiety can be devastating to the mother, the baby, the partner, the family, and society," said Birdie Meyer, President of Postpartum Support International, the bill's lead organizational sponsor.  "Passing the Melanie Blocker Stokes Mother's Act would have provided nationwide education and recognition of this illness. Childbearing women and their families deserve to have this education in every city, every hospital, every clinic, everywhere."

"After years of needless suffering, American women need the relief that would have been provided from increased research into the causes of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, better education of healthcare professionals to identify and treat these disorders, and grants for programs and services to help women recover," said Katherine Stone, former director of marketing at The Coca-Cola Company and creator of Postpartum Progress, the most widely-read blog in the U.S. on postpartum depression. "It is critical to foster healthy family development by preventing the serious physical and mental health problems affecting both mother and child that stem from undiagnosed or improperly treated postpartum depression."

Dr. Shoshana Bennett, former president of Postpartum Support International, and a survivor of two life-threatening, undiagnosed postpartum depressions, urged the Senate to reconsider this bill.  Sylvia Lasalandra, author of "A Daughter's Touch" and a longtime advocate for the legislation who traveled to Capitol Hill to speak in support of its passage, echoed those sentiments, adding "Shame on you Senator Coburn!"

Susan Dowd Stone, MSW, LCSW, chair President's Advisory Council, Postpartum Support International, said "It seems our Senate has lost its way - this continuing blockade by one Senator offers a troubling analogy to the current financial crisis. Within our federal mortgage agencies, decisions made by a very few deaf to constituent welfare and subject to minimal oversight have brought our country to the brink of bankruptcy. And today, a decision made by one person refusing to defer to his constituents' will and the indisputable science, research and statistics that support the need for this legislation, means thousands of innocents will continue to suffer. More lives will be lost. More families will be irreparably damaged. And more children will suffer the consequences of untreated maternal depression. Only 15% of women suffering with these devastating disorders are ever diagnosed and treated. Billions for the guilty, not a dime for our nation's most critical and innocent social dyad of mother and child."

When did such legislators decide that in the world's greatest democracy, individual opinion trumps society's need, consistent research findings and responsibility to constituents? Coburn is a doctor who participates in funding decisions for NIH and NIMH yet apparently remains unmoved by their perilous findings indicating that untreated maternal depression is a public health crisis. When one legislator can overturn the will of a country, we are no longer living in a democracy.

We will again await its inevitable passage at the next Congressional session when reason may more strongly prevail. Below is an outline of the bill's urgent and noble purpose:

The legislation would increase federal efforts to combat postpartum depression by:

• Coordinating and continuing research to better understand the causes of, and treatment for, postpartum conditions. Also, supports a National Public Awareness Campaign to increase awareness and knowledge of postpartum depression and psychosis.
• Creating a grant program for the delivery of essential services to individuals with postpartum depression.
• Conducting a study on the benefits of screening for postpartum depression and postpartum psychosis.

It is estimated that postpartum depression (PPD) affects from 10 to 20 percent of new mothers. In the United States, there may be as many as 800,000 new cases of postpartum conditions each year. The cause of PPD isn't known but changes in hormone levels, a difficult pregnancy or birth, and a family history of depression are considered possible factors."

Groups supporting the legislation:

• Postpartum Support International
• Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses
• American Psychological Association
• American Psychiatric Association
• Children's Defense Fund
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
• March of Dimes
• Mental Health America
• American College of Nurse Midwives
• National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare
• Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
• Suicide Prevention Action Network USA
• National Alliance on Mental Illness
• Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs
• National Partnership for Women & Families
• OWL- The Voice of Midlife and Older Women
• National Women's Law Center

Just Pick Up the Phone To Find Answers

Tonight (Wed, Sept 24th) at 9pm Eastern, Susan Stone will facilitate PSI's weekly free informational session called "Chat with the Experts".  You can join in from anywhere in the world and ask questions and just listen to others discuss resources, symptoms, options and general information.  Did I mention it's toll-free?  Did I mention you can remain anonymous if you prefer?  Did I mention it's offered by Postpartum Support International, the world's largest and most powerful organization supporting women with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders?

It's like getting an informational session in the privacy of your own home.  Anyone can participate:  new moms, husbands and partners, health care professionals, friends or anyone else who cares about the health of new families.  Click here for more info:  http://postpartum.net/info-sessions/

Spanish-Speaking Volunteers Needed

Postpartum Support International's toll-free warm line (1-800-944-4PPD) has been providing support and information to Spanish-speaking families for over a year now, according to PSI board member Wendy Davis.  It is currently staffed by 4 volunteers who return calls and offer support, information and resources.  PSI has a need now for additional Spanish-speaking volunteers.   Ideally, each volunteer would be assigned to just one day a week to retrieve voicemail messages and return calls when they are able during the following 24 hours.  You can also be a "back-up" phone volunteer.  If you are interested or know someone who might be, email Wendy at wdavis@postpartum.net. 

Bilingual volunteers receive free PSI membership, training and support,  This is a wonderful opportunity to work with a great group of people and help moms and families. 

Questions? Take Advantage of Free & Anonymous Help

Bewildered?  Bedraggled?  Beside yourself?  There is help that is open and available to you every week provided by caring experts who want to help women who may be suffering from perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, their families and their caregivers.  Every Wednesday, Postpartum Support International offers free phone sessions called "Chat with an Expert".    You can get information on resources, symptoms and options about perinatal mood disorders from the privacy of your own home or office.  There is no need to pre-register, or to even give your name if you would prefer to remain anonymous.  Wednesday's safe and caring forum (Sept. 17) is at 12pm Eastern and will be facilitated by Linda Klempner, PhD.  Click here for details.

PSI Hosts 2-Day Training in Tampa in October

University Community Hospital in Tampa, Florida, will be hosting Postpartum Support International's 2-day training program entitled "Perinatal Mood Disorders: Components of Care" on October 24 and 25.  The conference will be held at Pepin, the hospital's heart institute.  Attendance is limited to the first 100 registrations.  For further information, please contact June Vinyard at 813-615-7907 or jvinyard@mail.uch.org.  This is a class very much worth taking, especially if you're considering in specializing in the treatment of perinatal mood disorders. 

Chat with the Experts Session This Wednesday

Every Wednesday, Postpartum Support International has free open forum phone sessions called "Chat with the Expert".  These sessions are anonymous and offer a place where callers can ask questions and get information for themselves or family members about perinatal mood disorders.  Check here for details on how to join in.  This week's forum will be July 23 at 9pm EST, facilitated by Susan Stone, LCSW, past president of PSI. 

Upcoming PSI Certification Training in Chicago

The next 2-day PSI certification training is being held September 18 and 19 at Advocate Christ Medical Center Auditorium in Oak Lawn, Illinois.  It is being presented by Advocate Christ Medical Center, the University of Illinois at Chicago Medical Center and the University of Illinois Perinatal Network.  For more info and to register, call 708-684-1153.

Notes from Day 1 of PSI Conference

I'm liveblogging from the Postpartum Support International conference in Houston.  I'm not sure what liveblogging means ... since I'm not "deadblogging" when I'm doing it at home ... but it sure sounds cool. 

I have seen and heard some very interesting things these last few days.  I met Randy Gibbs, brother of Jennifer Gibbs Bankston and uncle of Graham, who along with his family has started the Jenny's Light organization in their memory.  I saw Jane Honikman, founder of PSI, give the Jane Honikman Award to Ann Dunnewold at lunch today for her dedication to working in the PPMD community.  Speaking of Ann, she did the keynote speech this morning and was hilarious while telling us all to stop trying to be like June Cleaver, who she asserted only had to be a mom for 20 minutes each week.  I met George Parnham, who has no idea who I am but I certainly know who he is and I am so grateful for the work he has done on behalf of Andrea Yates and others.  Speaking of Andrea, Rusty Yates, Andrea's ex-husband, sat 3 people from me in the same row at the keynote this morning.  I wasn't sure how I should feel about him being here, as I personally don't feel that he did anything to help his wife when he should have.  But then again, everyone deserves to be forgiven and perhaps he's coming to educate himself as much as he can.  I wish more men came and wanted to inform themselves.  I've gotten the chance to see a lot of the amazing women who are devoted to our cause, including Ilyene Barsky (FL), Sonia Murdock (NY), Ruta Nonacs (MA), Shoshanna Bennett (CA), Susan Stone (NJ), Diana Lynn Barnes (CA), Lucy Puryear (TX), Meg Spinelli (NY), Margaret Howard (RI), Wendy Davis (OR), Nancy Roberts (MI), Ann Dunnewold (TX), Birdie Meyer (IN), Meeka Centimano (KS), Pec Indman (CA), Christina Hibbert (AZ) and so many others I'm leaving out who I hope won't be mad at me.  You should only hope you would be lucky enough to live near and be treated or supported by one of these outstanding people who are the foremost experts on postpartum mood disorders. (I've put their locations in parentheses in case you actually DO live near them and could benefit from their expertise and/or support.)

Hello From Houston

It's Thursday night at 10pm and I'm sitting in a hotel room in Houston.  I'm here attending the Postpartum Support International annual conference.  I got here Tuesday and have spent the last two days attending official PSI certification training.  I highly recommend it.  Tomorrow the conference begins.  Being here is so inspiring -- so many of the attendees are survivors and you can see it in every face how important it is to them that we do better.  We know what it is like to feel so alone and uninformed and we all are now dedicated to changing that.  This place is crawling with warrior chicks.  If you're not here, I'll try to do some liveblogging over the next two days to let you know what is happening.   (It may be tough because I'm having a hard time getting a wireless signal in the Grand Ballroom -- we'll see ...)

Sidebar: There is a very strange noise outside.  It sounds like someone is jackhammering.  That better stop soon or I might go flying down to the lobby and cause a scene.  Don't they know how much people who have had mental illnesses NEED THEIR SLEEP?!?!?!?!?!?! 

Anyway, this is a lovely hotel and the people in Houston (Deborah Sorenson, George Parnham and Sherry Duson, among others) have done a great job putting the conference together.  Tonight they held a special dinner for all of the PSI coordinators from around the U.S. (and one who came in from Canada) who work so hard all year long for little accolades and no pay to keep abreast of everything that goes on in their state, answer calls from everyone who needs help, host support groups and so much more.  It was so nice to be able to tell those in attendance how grateful I am for their dedication.  How I would have loved to have known about even one of them when I was in my dark days.

Talk to you tomorrow ...   

Highlights of Upcoming PSI Conference in Houston

If you want to know why it is DEFINITELY worth your while to attend Postpartum Support International's upcoming annual conference in Houston, here are a few very good reasons:

Margaret Howard, PhD will be speaking.  She is the Director of the Women & Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, which is one of the nation's leading specialty hospitals for women and newborns.  It's the only hospital where pregnant and postpartum women can come and be treated for all symptomatic conditions. It is also the first and only hospital in the country that allows the infant to stay with his mother during treatment if inpatient hospitalization is warranted.   To read a very touching story of a mother who greatly benefited from their program, click here.  Anyone who is attempting to bring cutting edge perinatal programs into a community-based facility needs to hear the story of how our nation got its first comprehensive program for women and their infants suffering from perinatal mood disorders.

Take advantage of PSI's Certificate Training in setting up support group services for women suffering from perinatal mood disorders.  Or, take part in advanced clinical training for professionals already serving this population -- this session will provide case presentations and application of efficacious treatment models for affective recovery.

Thomas Hale, RPh, PhD, will tackle the sensitive issue of medication use during breastfeeding.  This topic is always of great interest to mothers, clinicians and healthcare professionals.  Hale is professor of Pediatrics and assistant dean of Research at Texas Tech University School of Medicine and author of the widely-used reference book "Medications and Mothers' Milk".

Lucy Puryear, MD, will present on psychiatric illness during pregnancy.  Renowned in her field of pregnancy-related mood disorders, Dr. Puryear will walk us through the effects on the fetus and how these can be minimized with appropriate care.  Puryear, of Baylor University, is author of "Understanding Your Moods When You're Expecting".

Hear from George Parnham, Andrea Yates' defense attorney and tireless advocate for women whose mental status is not appropriately considered when tragedy leads them into the criminal justice system.  He will provide an outline of what recourses women may have in defense.

Valerie Plame Wilson, former CIA agent and author of the bestselling book "Fair Game", will discuss her battles with PPD and how she overcame it.  Wilson will be the keynote speaker at Friday night's banquet.

Anne Dunnewold, PhD, will discuss culture and motherhood, and offer sound advice to counter feelings of guilt that may arise when one is not the "perfect mother".  (Is there any such thing?)  Dunnewold is the author of the recent book "Even June Cleaver Would Forget the Juice Box".

There is much, much more.  Postpartum Support International is the world’s leading nonprofit organization devoted to eradicating the ignorance around pregnancy-related mood disorders in every community worldwide! It will be a great time to network with other sufferers and healthcare professionals who specialize in treating us.  I hope to see you there!!

IMPORTANT:  Early bird registration ends this Friday, May 16th.   Get your registration in now to save $50.   Online registration is now available.  Hilton's special hotel rate of $119 will end May 16th as well -- trust me, the room rate triples afte the 16th, so hurry!

(Thanks to Deborah Sorenson, Sherry Duson and Susan Stone for helping me put together the highlights of the conference!)

PSI Seeking To Fill Open Board Positions

There are several open positions with the Executive Committee and Board of Postpartum Support International.  These positions are very important to the continued success of PSI and require people with dedication and experience in their respective areas.  Below is a brief explanation of each:

PSI Fundraising Chair -- Chairs the PSI Fundraising Committee.  It shall be the responsibility of the Fundraising Committee to actively seek funding sources for PSI programs and operations through private donations, grant opportunities, and corporate or foundation sponsorship of PSI projects.  It is expected that a minimum of four grant proposals each year will be submitted.  The Committee will reach out to PSI members on an annual basis to request donations and to request information on possible funding/grant sources.

PSI Website Chair -- The PSI Website Chair will head up the PSI Web Committee.  It is the responsibility of this committee to act as the liaison between the webmaster and the Board and other committees, to ensure that necessary changes and postings to the website are accomplished in a timely manner.

PSI Secretary -- The PSI Secretary is responsible for taking and keeping all board meeting minutes.  The Secretary is also responsible for maintaining copies of the Bylaws and policies.

PSI Board Member-At-Large (2 positions) -- People with expertise in non-profit management, mental health, grant writing and/or member recruitment/retention. 

Additionally, each board member is responsible for the following:

• Promote PSI's mission
• Attend and participate in monthly board meetings (most are via toll-free conference call)
• Be familiar with PSI policies, history and current goals
• Read and understand the bylaws
• Attend the annual conference (mandatory)
• Attend the annual board retreat (mandatory)
• Contribute $1000 per year to PSI while serving on the Board (this may be in the form of a direct donation, in-kind donation, or grant or other donation obtained through your efforts)

If you are interested in one of these positions and have the necessary skills and experience, please submit the application below to psioffice@postpartum.net .

Download psiboard_nomination_form1.doc

PPD Support for Spanish-Speaking Families

Postpartum Support International offers Spanish-language support on its toll-free warmline, at 1-800-944-4PPD (press 1 for Spanish).  Andrea Zas Jimenez is the support coordinator for the Spanish Warmline, and Stephanie Morales will be coordinating PSI's national resource list for Spanish-speaking support.  If you know of resources in the U.S. to help Spanish-speaking families, please send it to Stephanie at stephaniemoralesmft@hotmail.com. 

Awards For PPD Advocates Meyer and Goodman

Postpartum Support International (PSI) President-Elect Birdie Meyer has been selected to receive the Association for Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses' Award of Excellence in the area of Advocacy.  Congratulations Birdie for all the hard work you do to support women with postpartum mood disorders!

Also, Janice Goodman has been selected to receive the 2008 Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women's Unsung Heroine award.  Goodman has served as a coordinator for PSI in the state of Massachusetts, and is an assistant professor in Massachusetts General Hospital's Institute of Health Professions' graduate nursing program.

Early Registration Ends May 9 for PSI Conference

Early registration for the Postpartum Support International Annual Conference ends on May 9th.  If you register before then, you get a $50 discount on your total registration fee.  Go to www.postpartum.net/houston to download the PDF of the conference brochure and print out the registration form, which has info on how to fax or mail it in.

Susan Hickman Award Deadline April 15, 2008

Postpartum Support International's Susan Hickman Award promotes the interest of beginning researchers in the conduct of scientific investigation and knowledge development of postpartum mental health and postpartum psychiatric illness.  The award is $500, designated for use in the conduct of such research, as well as an inscribed plaque.  Award applicants must be members of PSI (visit www.postpartum.net to join) and a master's or doctoral candidate, post-doctoral or junior research faculty member with affiliation to an accrediated institution of higher education.  The deadline for submission of applications is April 15, 2008. 

To apply, submit three copies of a 3-5 page summary of the proposal that includes a problem statement, question/hypothesis, conceptual base/literature review, method/design, sample description, instruments/data collection approach and procedures.  Do not put the researcher's name on the three copies.  Provide a cover page with the title of the proposal, author institution, mailing address and phone.  Submit documentation of approval by the designated process for the candidate's academic institution, and document protection of human and animal rights. Application packets should be sent to Merrill Sparago MD, 10850 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 850, Los Angeles, CA, 90024 or sent via email to Dr. Sparago at msparago@mednet.ucla.edu with Susan Hickman Award indicated as the subject.

Sell Your Book at the PSI Conference Bookstore

Postpartum Support International will once again be operating a bookstore at its annual conference in Houston this June, selling books related to the topic of perinatal mood disorders.  If you are a member of PSI and would like to sell your book at the conference, please send the following information as soon as possible to Mary Lou Kravetz at treasurer@postpartum.net :

• Your name
• Mailing address
• Title of publication(s)
• Publisher
• Date of publication(s)
• Number of copies available for sale
• Cost per item

PSI will charge a 20% fee to handle the sales.  Unsold copies must be picked up at the end of the conference and a check will be sent to you within 10 days following the conference.  PSI does not allow members to sell items at the conference except through the bookstore.

P.S.  If you aren't currently a member of PSI, become one now!

Meet Me in Houston for the Annual PSI Conference

Registration is now open for the Postpartum Support International annual conference to be held in Houston at the Hilton Americas June 4-7.  I am including a PDF of the conference brochure below so that you can learn all about the various speakers and sessions.  I love this conference, not only for the updated information I am able to get but also because I get to spend time with my fellow warrior chicks and some amazing healthcare professionals who are dedicated to helping women with perinatal mood disorders.  I hope you'll be able to attend and I'll get to see you all in person!

Download psi_conference_brochure_08.pdf

Please Take Quick Survey on PSI's Chat with the Experts

Postpartum Support International (PSI) offers a weekly, toll-free conference call open to new moms, their family and friends, and healthcare professionals to help answer any questions they may have about postpartum mood disorders.  The service is called "Chat with the Experts".  Participation can be anonymous.  There is no need to register, the sessions are live and free, and the facilitators are licensed mental health professionals who are experts in the field of postpartum mood disorders. 

In order to make sure this service is reaching its intended audience, I need all of you to PLEASE respond to a super quick 10-question survey on this service.  Your feedback is much appreciated.

Click Here to take survey

"From The Hips" Pregnancy Guide Offers Deeper Look at PPD

There is a great new pregnancy guidebook out called "From the Hips: A Comprehensive, Open-Minded, Uncensored, Totally Honest Guide to Pregnancy, Birth & Becoming A Parent," written by Rebecca Odes and Ceridwen Morris.  I think this book rocks and will eventually outsell many of the other books that just cause fear and confusion and frustration for women who are about to become mothers.  (Was anybody else freaked out after reading "What to Expect When You're Expecting," or was it just me?)

My favorite feature? The chapter called "The Postbaby Brain" on pages 188-205.  The authors take an unvarnished look at the feelings moms have about parenthood, both good and bad.  And they actually talk about postpartum mood disorders for 5 pages (!), rather than the usual paragraph or two, even offering a list of symptoms for postpartum depression, postpartum OCD, postpartum panic disorder and postpartum psychosis.  It's nice to see a general interest pregnancy book go into more detail about the variety of symptoms one can experience and recognize that PPD is not a one-size-fits-all illness.  I would have liked them to offer a little more information on how to seek help, but they do provide a list of resources on page 194 that includes Postpartum Support International and Postpartum Progress (wahoo!), among other good sites and books.

Odes and Morris offer ten "anti-rules" for parents-in-progress, which you can learn more about by picking up their book:

1. Everyone's an expert, but you're the authority on yourself and your baby.
2. Confidence is more important than instinct.
3. Strive for imperfection.
4. Parenting is out of control.
5. There's no such thing as a "natural" mother.
6. Shift happens.
7. Babies are people, not problems.
8. Frustration, resentment, anger, exhaustion, exasperation, aggravation, jealousy, nostalgia, regret, etc., don't make you a bad parent.
9. Look forward, not backward. 
10. There is no right way.

PSI Responds to False Rumors About MOTHERS Act

Stories have been circulating on the web and elsewhere disseminating falsehoods about the Melanie Blocker Stokes MOTHERS Act.  Postpartum Support International has shared a response to those falsehoods that is very important for everyone to read.  I'll offer my response separately.

It has come to the attention of PSI that misinformation about the Melanie Blocker Stokes MOTHERS Act and its lead sponsor, Postpartum Support International (PSI), is being aggressively circulated on the web.  This bulletin suggests protest against the bill's adoption on false belief, and implies that PSI's interest in the legislation emanates from its funding by pharmaceutical companies.  These assertions indicate the bulletin's authors have neither read nor understood the legislation nor sought verification of PSI's funding sources, which are available to the public.  The following is true:

1.  PSI is not, nor has it ever been, funded by pharmaceuticals.  Our funding comes from private donations, memberships and our own fundraising efforts.  It appears our fine organization was mischaracterized without any attempt to verify this false assertion.

2.  The Melanie Blocker Stokes MOTHERS Act does not mandate screening, the use of medications, or any other form of involuntary or coercive engagement in unwanted services for perinatal mood disorders.

3.  Melanie Blocker Stokes leapt to her death as a result of postpartum psychosis which was not promptly diagnosed and treated.  Her mother, Carol Blocker, has devoted her life to the passage of this protective legislation named for her daughter.  Her death was not the result of medication misuse.

4.  To further clarify and summarize, the Melanie Blocker Stokes MOTHERS Act encourages the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) to coordinate and continue research to expand the understanding of the causes of, and find treatments for, postpartum conditions.  It also encourages a national public awareness campaign, to be administered by HHS to increase awareness and knowledge of postpartum depression and psychosis.  It encourages HHS to make grants available for projects for the establishment, operation and coordination of systems for the delivery of essential services to individuals with postpartum depression.

It is most unfortunate that any organization would attempt to dissuade public support of critical legislation by circulating erroneous information about the bill's contents and intent.  Please call or visit PSI's website to read the legislation or submit any questions.

SaraBear Baskets Partners with Postpartum Support International

SaraBear Company has partnered with Postpartum Support International (PSI) to offer new mothers, and those who love them, a resource for help. All SaraBear diaper caddies now carry an informational hang tag on their handles bearing a list of the symptoms to identify a postpartum mood disorder as well as directions to the PSI website and helpline.

After the birth of her second child, too exhausted and preoccupied to focus on her own health and what were obvious signs of postpartum depression, Melissa Bramlage, the CEO and founder of SaraBear, suffered alone and needlessly.

"I waited too long to reach out for help. Our focus is to put the PSI website and helpline directly in front of new mothers and fathers," says Melissa. "Knowing that a qualified voice to listen and offer help is just a phone call away can make the difference for a new mother and her family." 

SaraBear Company has built its incredible success upon an unwavering belief that life with babies should be enjoyed to its fullest. Their diaper caddies are designed to make baby-care organization easy. The new PSI informational tags are intended to make joy an attainable thing for all new moms. SaraBear will donate a portion of each sale to PSI.

This is fabulous!!

PSI Launches Members Only Section on Website

The Postpartum Support International (PSI) website has just launched a Members Only section.  This section allows you to locate and network with PSI's other members across the country.  In the directory, members may list links to their own websites, practices, agencies or facilites.  You can also search by name, town or state.  If you are a PSI member, please email psioffice@postpartum.net to get your username and password and instructions on how to log in.

Congrats to PSI staff Devani Stumpf and Chris Armstrong for their work getting this up and running!

PSI Annual Conference To Be Held in Houston June 4-7

Save the Date!  This year's Postpartum Support International conference will be held in Houston, June 4-7 at the Hilton Americas-Houston.  The event is co-sponsored by the Women's Mental Health Initiative of the Mental Health Association of Greater Houston.  Some of the main speakers include Dr. Margaret Spinelli, Dr. Lucy Puryear, Valerie Plame Wilson and George Parnham.  Registation will begin in March.  I'll be there, and I hope to see you there as well!  For more information, visit www.postpartum.net.

Columbia University To Host "Mood Disorders Across the Female Life Cycle"

On Saturday, March 8, Columbia University will host "Mood Disorders Across the Female Life Cycle" led by Dr. Margaret Spinelli.  The event is being held in conjunction with Postpartum Support International, Postpartum Resource Center of New York, and the National Association for Psychosocial OB/GYNs.  It will be held at the Alumni Auditorium in the William Black Medical Research Building at Columbia University Medical Center.  CMEs are available for MDs, PhDs, CSWs, Nurse Practitioners and Nurses.  To register, click here.

I Need Your Help

I am joining the Parade Giving Challenge and would like to ask anyone and everyone out there who sees this blog to click the donation button below and give to Postpartum Support International.  It will only take a couple of minutes and could make a world of difference.  Postpartum Support International does heroic and important work with very little funding. 

If you suffered from postpartum depression then you know how much more education and resources are needed.  Let's make sure future new mothers get the kind of support and help we would have wanted.  Any amount you could donate would go to helping new mothers suffering from postpartum mood disorders.  PLEASE, PLEASE do this.

Melanie Blocker Stokes Act Passes in U.S. House!!

On Monday, October 15th at 4:15pm, perinatal mental health history was made as H.R. 20, the Melanie Blocker Stokes Postpartum Depression Research and Care Act, was passed in the House of Representatives by a vote of 382 to 3!!  "What a thrill it was to watch from the Congressional Gallery as Congressman Bobby L. Rush (D-IL) made his final, victorious push for American, children and families," said Susan Stone, president of Postpartum Support International.

We all owe a debt of gratitude to Congressman Bobby L. Rush, Carol Blocker (who lost her daughter Melanie to this terrible illness), Susan Stone and Postpartum Support International, and all the other people who have toiled for years to get this passed. 

This is huge.  Now we just have to get the MOTHERS Act passed and we'll be IN BUSINESS!  Money for research!  Screening for new moms!  Training for healthcare providers!  Wahoo!  Get your telephones ready on October 24th to make those calls to Senators!!!

Need Help? PSI Offers Free and Anonymous PPD Info Sessions Via Phone

If you have questions about PPD, either because you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, or want to know more as a provider, there is a wonderful free service offered by Postpartum Support International.  You can talk with a PPD expert about resources, symptoms, options and general information about perinatal mood disorders from the privacy of your own home, thanks to toll-free informational sessions.   You won't need to pre-register or even give your name, if it's important to you to remain anonymous. 

These sessions are held on Wednesdays at either 3pm or 9pm EST.  They are limited to the first 15 callers.  For the call schedule and access codes you'll need to participate, visit www.postpartum.net or call 1-800-944-4773.  And if you do call, let them know you heard about it on Postpartum Progress!!

Ladies, Send Me Your Blog & Website Addresses So I Can Link To You

I am going to create a new page in Postpartum Progress that links to women who have blogs or websites that are either specifically about postpartum depression, or have included stories about experiencing postpartum depression.  If you have one of those blogs or sites, please email me at stonecallis@msn.com.  Tell me about your blog or website, and give me your URL web address.  Thanks!  I look forward to linking with you!

Just Back From PSI Conference

Last week I went to Postpartum Support International's annual conference on postpartum mood disorders.  As usual, I'm so glad I went.  It is very exciting to see so many women in one place who are so committed to working towards better education, treatment and support for the women who go through this.  So many of us who were there are survivors, or people close to those who have suffered, and we know what an important cause this is!  Ladies, you should feel very good about all the work that is being done to support you out there!!  My head is swimming with all of the info and ideas I got from the conference, and I'll try and share some of them with you this week after I get myself organized.  Thanks to everyone in Kansas and Missouri for their hard work on putting the conference together, thanks to everyone at PSI and hello to all my new friends!

Barnes to Appear on CBS Monday June 11

Wendy Davis of PSI gave me a heads up that PSI's past president Diana Lynn Barnes will be interviewed on the CBS Early show on June 11.  She will be discussing her new book, "The Journey to Parenthood: Myths, Reality and What Really Matters."  CBS has a good history of positively covering the issue of postpartum mood disorders and the need for more research and treatment.

PSI Offers Free Info Sessions on Wednesdays Via Conference Call!!!!

There is SO MUCH GOING ON!!!!!!!  This is very exciting for those of us who have survived these horrible illnesses.   Postpartum Support International has started to offer free Perinatal Mood Disorder Informational sessions via 800 teleconference line.  This new program began Wednesday, May 2, 2007 at 3pm EST and will continue weekly on Wednesdays, alternating between 3pm in the afternoon and 9pm in the evening EST.  The sessions are limited to the first 15 callers.  They are informational only and will offer participants an opportunity to ask questions and obtain information from PSI healthcare professionals.  They are open to women who feel they may be suffering from a pregnancy related mood disorders, as well as to concerned family members and friends. 

This is a HUGE, free resource for people all over the country.  You will be getting information from people who REALLY know what they are talking about.  I would recommend this to anyone who isn't sure if they have a postpartum mood disorder, who isn't sure if they are getting the right kind of help,  or who isn't sure how to provide the best support for someone they love who is going through this!

Participants must call 1-800-944-8766 five minutes before the call begins.  After the 15th caller joins the call, no other callers may join.  (I think this is a good idea because it lets those who are on the phone get more in-depth information.)  Check the PSI website for dates, times and facilitators. 

PSI Launches New Website

PSI has just relaunched its website and it is looking much better!!  Very nicely done ... although I have to admit I'm completely bummed that there is no link to Postpartum Progress in their links section.  Anyway, I suggest you stop by the site if you haven't been there in a while.

Mama Bear

Postpartum Support International (PSI) has introduced a Limited Edition Bear that it is selling to support the postpartum mood disorder cause.  The bear, which costs only $10, was developed by Charity Bears as a way to raise funds & awareness for PSI.   To order one, call PSI at 805-967-7636.