Depressed Moms

Community Services for Children’s Institute for Child and Family Development is holding a conference addressing ‘How Maternal Depression Affects Babies and Children,’ Friday, November 14, 2008, at the Best Western Hotel & Conference Center off Rt 22 and 512 in Northampton County.

It is not uncommon for mothers to experience depression soon after childbirth and during the first year of their baby’s life. Early identification and treatment of maternal depression is important for mother, child and family. Major depression in the postpartum period holds a significant public health concern, posing a risk to the quality of the mother-infant relationship during a critical period for development of attachment.

Speakers Dr. Gerard Costa and Dr. Andres Pumariega will address prevalence, symptoms, and risks; the consequences for child development and subsequent psychopathology; screening and treatment; and how to support positive family relationships.

Dr. Costa a Developmental Psychlogist with Temple University and a Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at UMDNJ – New Jersey Medical School. Dr. Pumariega is Chief of Psychiatry, Reading Hospital and Medical Center, and Professor of Psychiatry at Temple University Medical School.

Both speakers have authored numerous journal articles on this and related topics.

The conference will include continental breakfast and lunch. To be added to our mailing list or for further information, call 610-432-7300 or 610-437-6000, ext 2106.