I am not a psychiatrist, and my degree in Social Work is not adequate to
deal with this subject in a professional way, however, I would also like to
add my somments on the diagnosis of PPD.  

It seems to have become a "catchall phrase" for anyone who has children and
is overwhelmed.  The other day I was at a mom's home.  She was dealing
with:
* Living in a mobile home with her husband and three children plus a
newborn
* Her recently widowed sister and two children have moved in during the
last months of her pregnancy
* They are undocumented, so there her husband's employment is erratic and
they are not eligible for any financial aid.
* The entire family has limited groceries, and the food is mostly given to
the children and the working husband.
* She delivered a baby who was very tiny and would not latch on well.
* You see very little facial expression. 
Is SHE suffering from PPD or "overwhelmed"?

Another mom -
* Trying to break a drug habit
* Living in a motel which requires she move every 29 days so that she is
not considered a "renter"
* No cooking facilities other than an illegal microwave. (not allowed by
the motel).
* Baby has been transferred to a hospital that requires her to spend $15
and 2 hours in public transportation each way.
* Nurses at the NICU criticise her that she doesn't "visit often enough"
and is not pumping enough.
* You see her crying a lot.
Is this PPD?

Those are the families I visit with the Public Health Nurses.   I worry
that when these moms are referred, the "easy" option is PPD and medication.
 What is really needed?  Well - you can make your own decisions...

Jeanette Panchula, BSW, LLLL, IBCLC, RN
Vacaville, CA

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