The Ellen Story Commission on Postpartum Depression
A Massachusetts Special Legislative Commission
Who We Are
Created by statute in 2010, the Ellen Story Commission on Postpartum Depression is a standing Massachusetts legislative commission named for retired State Representative Ellen Story.
The Commission's mission is to investigate and study issues related to perinatal mental health (PMH), increase awareness around perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), improve availability and access to PMH resources for birthing people and their families, and recommend best practices for screening and treatment of PMADs. Our Commissioners include legislators, individuals who have lived experience with PMADs, physicians, nurses, social workers, psychiatrists, psychotherapists, doulas, midwives, patient advocates, community health workers, and more.
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Learn more about the Commission on our About page.
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For information on upcoming meetings and events, visit our Meetings and Events pages.
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Follow us on Twitter and Instagram!
@ppdcommission
What is Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum Depression (PPD) affects 1 in 7 mothers and 1 in 10 fathers.
Parents experiencing PPD experience a range of physical, emotional, and behavioral changes including anxiety, irritability, unwanted or concerning thoughts, insomnia, and difficulty bonding with their baby. ​
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PPD is one type of PMAD. PMADs may also include anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and in rare cases, postpartum psychosis.
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PMADS are treatable and there are resources available for parents who think they may have a PMAD. Scroll down for a list of resources.
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If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that you are not alone and you are not to blame.
Resources
Need help?
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Postpartum Support International of Massachusetts provides toll-free and confidential information and support. Leave a message and a volunteer will get back to you within 24 hours.
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Call or text the PSI HelpLine:
1-800-944-4773
#1 Español or #2 English​
Text "Help" to 800-944-4773 (EN)
Text en Español: 971-203-7773
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Call the Massachusetts Parental Stress Line. Available 24/7, anonymous and confidential:
1-800-632-8188
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Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline. Response within a few minutes, available 24/7 in English or Spanish:
1-833-943-5746
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Find other resources for PPD and other perinatal mood and anxiety disorders from mass.gov or Mass. PPD Fund.
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Need help now ?
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The 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline is now live. If you are struggling, please don't be afraid to reach out for help. You matter and you belong here. Call or text 988 anytime of the day or night for free, confidential crisis counseling.
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Are you or a family member experiencing a mental health or substance abuse crisis? Call Emergency Services Program/Mobile Crisis Intervention at 1-877-382-1609.
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¿Está usted or un miembro de su familia en un crisis de salud mental o de abusa de sustancias? Haz clic aquí: Programas de Servicios de Emergencia informacion de contacto.
