Prenatal Depression and Anxiety Services at UPMC Magee-Womens in Central Pa.

During pregnancy, it is natural for women to experience changes in their feelings or mood. While mood changes are common some mood symptoms become severe enough to require treatment. If feelings of depression or anxiety persists for a few weeks or interfere with daily activities, it is time to get help. Anxiety and depression during pregnancy can worsen and continue into postpartum.

Symptoms of Depression During Pregnancy

• Feeling sad, depressed and/or crying a lot
• Decreased interest in wanting to be a mother
• Feeling guilty or worthless
• Having low energy
• Feeling restless or irritable
• Thoughts of harming yourself
• Decrease or incase in appetite or weight
• Trouble making decisions, focusing and/or remembering things
• Having an increase in trouble sleeping
• Having chest pains, headaches, numbness, hyperventilation, or heart palpitations
• Fear about the baby or that you will not be a good mother

Support Group

The HOPE Group is a Postpartum Adjustment Support Group for expecting and new moms. The group is facilitated by a caring nurse with peer support, who are experienced in women's health. Many new moms feel overwhelmed for weeks and/or months following the birth of their baby. They experience feelings such as exhaustion, insomnia, social withdrawal, feeling out of control, poor concentration, frequent crying, and forgetfulness. Having a safe atmosphere of recognition and support allows one to deal with feelings of inadequacy in caring for your child, guilt, and sadness.
 
Join us Monday evenings, where the group will be facilitated by a caring nurse with peer support, who are experienced in women's health. Sessions are held virtually on the second and fourth Monday evening of every month at 6pm. Please contact 717-960-3409 for information on how to join the virtual group.  

Getting Help

If you're experiencing the signs of postpartum depression, contact PinnacleHealth Psychological Associates at 717-231-8360 or crisis intervention in your county:

• Western Cumberland and Perry counties: 717-243-6005
• Eastern Cumberland and Perry counties: 717-763-2222
• Dauphin County: 717-232-7511
• York County: 717-851-5352

You can also contact Postpartum Support International (PSI) coordinators. PSI provides support, encouragement and information about perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression. Visit or call 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD) for local help.

IF YOU BELIEVE YOU MAY HARM YOURSELF OR YOUR BABY, CALL YOUR health care PROVIDER, 911 OR GO TO THE NEAREST EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT.

Figure Out You Risk for Prenatal Depression and Anxiety

This assessment asks you questions to help you figure out your risk for prenatal depression.

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