28th Annual Postpartum Support International Conference to Plant Seeds of Hope

PSI Partners with Tree of Hope Foundation for June 24-27 Maternal Mental Health Training

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Jun 11, 2015, 08:30 ET

PLYMOUTH, Mich., June 11, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Despite the progress that society has made in recognizing and treating maternal mental health problems, as many as one in seven new mothers still struggles with postpartum depression. Postpartum Support International (PSI), the leading organization dedicated to helping women suffering from perinatal mood disorders, is bringing together the country's top experts to share the latest research and innovative treatments to help new mothers. Last year's conference in Chapel Hill, NC drew 350 researchers, childbirth professionals, social support providers, mental and public health providers, nurses, primary care physicians, and volunteers from around the world. "We expect this year's conference to be even larger," notes Ann Smith, CNM, and president of PSI.

In the summer of 2004, a mother in St. Clair Shores, MI ended her life, and the life of her 5-week old daughter. Out of that tragedy, the Tree of Hope Foundation grew. The non-profit organization currently provides support groups for new mothers four days a week in the metro Detroit area. The theme of this year's conference is "Overcoming Stigma, Increasing Options and Embracing Innovative Treatments." Pam Moffitt, Tree of Hope President and Conference Chair, says, "We chose this theme because too many women are still reluctant to seek support and treatment. And because each mom's needs are unique, we want to share the entire gamut of treatment options—from medication to alternative treatment such as yoga, from in-patient care to social media support."

This year's program features four keynote speakers and thirty-five break-out sessions, plus pre- and post- conference sessions. Keynote speakers include: Maria Muzik, M.D., Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Michigan; Cindy Lee Dennis, Ph.D., Canada Research Chair in Perinatal Community ; the staff of the Pine Rest Baby Center, a short-term intensive treatment program for women experiencing significant perinatal mood disorders; and George Parnham, J.D., attorney for Andrea Yates. Topics will include: innovative inpatient care, mindfulness and sensory interventions, eating disorders, role of sleep, legal ramifications, and grief counseling. "PSI is building a safety-net for women in distress, as well as a bridge between families and providers," says Wendy Davis, PhD, Executive Director of PSI. Over the years, our organization has trained hundreds of individuals to support new mothers who are struggling with postpartum mental health issues. In addition to our annual conference, PSI offers a wide variety of local and online trainings. The conference provides an opportunity for health professionals to earn CEs, CMEs, and CNEs. Visit the conference website for details and full agenda.

About Postpartum Support International

PSI has volunteer coordinators in 50 states and 40 countries. Visit their recently renovated website: www.postpartum.net to locate resources in your area. PSI Support Warmline is available every day, in English and Spanish, 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD).

CONTACTS:
Sharon Gerdes
Email, 719-358-9499

SOURCE Postpartum Support International