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Susan Nachman-Srebrnik, LC
Lactation Consultant
23 Nativ Halamed-Hey
Ranana 43340
Israel
E-mail: [log in to unmask]
Fax:(972)-3-566-1914
Phone:(972)-9-771-8274
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Hi all.  I work closely with a number of mental health professionals -
psychologists; MSWs; psychiatrists etc.  One thing that I've learned is that we
need to differentiate between biological disorders and situational
depression/anxiety.  Almost everyone goes through a crisis or depression at one time
or another.  (God knows, I had my share last year being witness to a terrorist
attack, jaundice, miscarriage etc. within a 6 month period.)  A supportive network
of health care professionals can do wonders, often but not always without
medication.  However, there are lots of people out there who have suffered off and
on throughout their lives without obvious triggers.  All the talking in the world
won't help a chemical imbalance.  The key is to find sympathetic doctors with the
knowledge to diagnose situational stress (death of a loved one, infertility, moving
house) and biological disorders like bi-polar depression.  Too many GPs are giving
out Prozac and sleeping pills where they should be on the phone to a psychologist
making a referral.

Since most of us deal with mothers during childbearing years when stress levels are
high, it is helpful to keep a hot list available of supportive mental health pros.
Not all psychologists are alike!  Just like MDs, they have different areas of
expertise.   It is also essential to tell the mom to trust her gut feelings.  She
may have to interview a number of doctors before finding one she feels comfortable
with.

By the way, evening of primrose oil is helpful with post-partum downs.

Susan in Ranana, Israel