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Postpartum Depression and the Economic Growth of Young Texas Families

Postpartum depression is the most common complication of childbirth and can affect families in a range of ways, including in terms of health, family stability, and economic security. Nearly 15% of women in the United States will experience postpartum depression (PPD) symptoms,ii but that rate rises to 17% for Texas women.

The condition can occur up to a year after delivery but is also frequently observable during pregnancy—which is why the condition is sometimes referred to as perinatal or maternal depression—and can include anxiety, difficulty performing daily tasks, sleeplessness, acute feelings of guilt, and major depressive episodes.

Texas lawmakers have taken positive steps to increase access to supports for those coping with PPD, but given the pressing need, further improvements remain critical. To read more about addressing postpartum depression in Texas, please read the full brief: Postpartum Depression and the Economic Growth of Young Texas Families.