Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders: Supporting Dental Professionals, Teams and Families

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, including postpartum depression, can significantly impact dental professionals, their colleagues, and their families. The demands of dental practice schedules and workflows, and personal responsibilities, increase the risk of burnout and depression affecting anyone, regardless of gender. Colleagues and family members may recognize a change in their partner once the baby arrives. This presentation helps learners understand what perinatal or postpartum depression is, identify the risk factors and share when professional intervention is needed. Presenters highlight support resources, such as counseling, support groups, and employee assistance programs for anyone needing help, and explore national and state advocacy efforts surrounding depression, perinatal and postpartum depression.

Learning Objectives

• Describe perinatal or postpartum depression
• Identify risk factors for perinatal and postpartum depression
• Understand when intervention for perinatal or postpartum depression is needed