Beyond the Blues: Understanding and Treating Prenatal and Postpartum Depression & Anxiety

by Shoshana S. Bennett, Pec Indman

Newly updated, Beyond the blues contains the current information about risk factors, diagnosis, teatment, and prevention of mood disorders in pregnancy and postpartu. Straightforward yet compassionate, it is required reading for all who work with pregnant and postpartum women, as well as for those suffering before or after the baby is born. This book is being used by the US Navy, Spectrum Health in Michigan, Durham Regional Health Department of Canada, New York State Department of Health, Broward Healthy Start Coalition of Florida, the International Childbirth Education Association, and many other organizations.

Genres: Parenting, Nonfiction, Self Help

174 pages, Paperback

First published February 15, 2002

Reviews

[Caitlyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is super helpful and concise. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapy associate beginning work in the perinatal field. I would recommend this book to anyone who would like additional information.

[Crystal Doiron · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great resource. I can see myself returning to it many times in my practice with perinatal and postpartum moms.

[Kara Page · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read for women and the family and friends of those women who struggle with mood disorders after giving birth. It's clear and straight to the point, and has chapters for spouses and family and friends which are very helpful in creating a support system.

[Karrie Clapp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this in fewer than two hours. I think every pregnant woman should read it.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short and to the point introduction to the topic.

[New · Rating 2 out of 5]

A good primer on PMADs, but would recommend further reading for sure if you are a clinician and seeking more detailed psychotherapeutic interventions

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Just what the doctor *should* order*

A wonderful resource for anyone desiring a better understanding of perinatal mood disorders. With essential information and resources for sufferers, their loved ones, and healthcare professionals, _Beyond the Blues_ is beyond a valuable asset for helping women suffering with prenatal and postpartum mood disorders, including depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, psychosis, post-traumatic stress disorder, and bipolar disorder.

Written with empathy, expertise, and easy-to-understand-and-follow information and guidance, this book fills a much-needed place on the women's health bookshelf. In addition to including up-to-date diagnostic and treatment information and (a plethora of) resources on perinatal mood disorders, the book also includes concrete suggestions for how others can provide support---including what to (and more importantly what not to!) say and do. Best of all, the book helps to demystify and destigmatize perinatal mood disorders--which are more common, and more treatable, than many believe.

Although the book is a quick read, its content and message have long-lasting value in the understanding and treatment of perinatal mood disorders.

[Rochelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

ugh! not a good book at all! Basically, because the author had a tough time at a mom's group, her advice pretty much is avoid parenting groups because they might make you feel worse, but medication, medication, medication! Yes, they recommend talk therapy, but so much of the book was heavy on "well, most SSRIs are safe during pregnancy..."
They have a little section on what not to say for partners, family, doctors, etc.
Pretty much a waste of some trees, in my opinion.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this is a great resource for everyone - mothers, partners, doctors, doulas - we all have something to learn from this. Sometimes books about topics such as this can be overloaded with information, however this one is clear and concise which will make it easier to refer back to whenever I need a refresher!

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This may not be five-star worthy for the general public, but I found it very clear, very concise, and very honest. It provided me with both clarity, acceptance, and hope. So, yeah, five stars for me.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Funny. I don't remember being interviewed for this book, yet it was obviously written with my specific experience in mind. Seriously, though, what a relief to get confirmation that my symptoms are not at all "in my head."

[Hil White]

Started this when I was suffering from PPD but didn't finish it and now it's not very relevant. I wish I would have started reading it sooner but I'm glad I have it for after any other future pregnancies.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good information. Right to the point for whoever may need it.

[Cara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative.

[Christina Hibbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful book about pregnancy and postpartum emotional health. Easy to read. In-depth. And comes in Spanish too. Pec and Shoshana are incredible experts on this topic. Excellent resource!

[Jessyca Wyant · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super fast read. Great info in a very reader-friendly format. Critical information for anyone working with women during or after pregnancy.