Shapiro Administration Calls for Universal Postpartum Depression Screenings, Faster Mental Health Referrals

March 28, 2025

The profound impact of postpartum depression is felt by mothers, their families, and communities across Pennsylvania. To help combat this epidemic, state officials are calling for universal postpartum screenings and more urgent referrals for mental health care.

During a recent visit to UPMC Harrisburg, officials from the Departments of Health (DOH) and Human Services (DHS) outlined Governor Josh Shapiro's proposal in this year's budget to implement universal postpartum depression screenings for all Pennsylvania moms. The plan provides $5 million to fund maternal health initiatives, including identifying and addressing postpartum depression and anxiety. 

“Screening for postpartum depression is extremely crucial to successfully identifying individuals who might be struggling,” said Dr. David Silver, gynecologic psychiatrist, UPMC Magee-Womens in Central Pa. “Screening should be a routine part of all prenatal and postpartum care, and it’s important to connect screening efforts with specialized behavioral health care services and support.”

Here are a few key takeaways:

• Widespread problem:  Postpartum depression affects one in eight mothers across the country. More than half of maternal deaths in the U.S. occur during the postpartum period.
• Identifying the symptoms:  Postpartum depression and anxiety can occur in the weeks and months after childbirth, where mothers experience a broad range of symptoms including but not limited to sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, change in appetite, difficulty sleeping, mood swings and thoughts of self-harm that may make it difficult to carry out daily tasks, such as caring for themselves and their babies.
• Quotable:  "Early detection and treatment of postpartum depression—a condition affecting approximately 10 percent of our patients—are crucial for both maternal mental health and newborn well-being,” said Dr. Christina DeAngelis, a Women’s Health physician at Penn State Health. “Despite widespread support from major healthcare organizations, universal screening has yet to be implemented."

During January, HAP released an action plan to improve maternal health outcomes, increase access to care, and eliminate disparities. Developed by HAP’s Task Force on Maternal and Child Health, the report provides specific recommendations for increasing access to perinatal behavioral health care and expanding screening and treatment for postpartum depression.

Learn more about the event online.