Understanding Perinatal Mental Health Disorders

Perinatal Mental Health conditions are the number one complication of childbearing. These conditions can occur during pregnancy, post-loss, and/or postpartum. They affect not only the pregnant person but also other family members, including dads and partners. Examine the prevalence, symptoms, risk factors, and potential treatment options for various perinatal mental health conditions, including Perinatal Depression, Perinatal Anxiety and Panic Disorder, Perinatal Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Mood Disorders, and Postpartum Psychosis.

Led by Julia Alzoubaidi, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist who worked with children and adolescents until her firstborn was six months old, when she experienced a severe perinatal mental health disorder. As part of her healing process, she began volunteering with Postpartum Support International (PSI) in various capacities. Her involvement evolved into managing PSI’s Postpartum Psychosis Program and coordinating PSI’s Postpartum Psychosis Taskforce.

Presented in partnership with Tewksbury Public Library.