Diagnosis of Postpartum Depression

A public health nurse provides services in the promotion and protection of health at various community health centres throughout British Columbia. Their duties include screening for PPD, counselling and educating pregnant parents and families, conducting mental health assessments, providing referrals to specialists, and much more.

A general practitioner, also known as a family doctor, provides general primary care to individuals and families, often on a long-term basis. They provide education on topics such as pregnancy and mental health, can screen and diagnose PPD, and can work with you on a treatment plan, which may include referrals to specialists.

A psychiatrist specializes in preventing, diagnosing and treating mental illnesses. They can prescribe PPD medications, often together with psychotherapy. Psychiatrists may also admit clients to an inpatient program where they will remain under medical supervision. Psychiatrists may offer therapy themselves or make therapy referrals to social workers, nurse practitioners or psychologists.

A psychologist provides assessments and management options, such as therapy, to individuals with mental health concerns. Psychologists focus on an individual’s thought and emotional state, and in the case of PPD, they would counsel an individual toward viewing the upsetting situation through a different lens. Psychologists often teach specific skills to help clients become aware of and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. They don’t prescribe medication but may refer clients to psychiatrists with whom they work.

A counsellor is sometimes referred to as a “therapist.” Counsellors have a range of backgrounds and may have a master’s or doctoral level degree from a counselling program. They provide a talk-based approach to provide support. They can often assist with life transitions and help you develop a greater understanding of yourself.

A pediatrician is similar to a general practitioner but provides primary care specifically to infants. While interacting with the mother or family when seeing the baby, they may play a role in early detection and subsequent referral to a PPD specialist.

A midwife provides primary care to parents and babies throughout pregnancy, labour, birth, and the postpartum period. They can help identify PPD early, provide education on pregnancy/mental health, and provide referrals to relevant healthcare professionals.

A community social worker can provide information or education for new parents and families. Some offer phone or in-person counselling. The availability of community social workers varies across the province.