The debilitating illness of Maternal Depression is a major public health concern, affecting over 50,000 New York State mothers and their families each year. As the Executive Director of the Postpartum Resource Center of New York, I've seen this firsthand. I've seen family members struggle with Maternal Depression over the years, and countless new mothers who haven't had the resources to help them cope.

According to the NYS Department of Health, postpartum depression is the most common medical disorder after childbirth. Now is our chance to make sure Gov. Andrew Cuomo knows how important this issue is.

Maternal Depression legislation sponsored by State Senator Liz Krueger and Assembly Member Richard Gottfried was passed earlier this year. But time is running out - it still needs Gov. Andrew Cuomo's signature before the end of the year to become law!

The legislation, A7667-B/S3137-C, defines Maternal Depression, provides maternal depression education, and establishes a screening and referral plan for the state.

This  critical legislation will spur early identification and treatment of postpartum depression and other perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and can help prevent needless tragedies. Please join us and urge Gov. Cuomo to sign this bill now before  time runs out on the bill! And share this with others!