Codey, Weinberg Bill to Increase Public Education and Patient Screenings on Perinatal Anxiety Advances

TRENTON – Legislation sponsored by Senator Richard J. Codey and Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg, which would provide increased public education and patient screenings for perinatal anxiety, advanced from the Senate Health, Human Services, and Senior Citizens Committee yesterday.

“Perinatal Anxiety is often overlooked and is generally dismissed by the woman suffering and those around her,” said Senator Codey (D-Essex/Morris). “Mistakenly considered to be self-controllable, perinatal anxiety removes the enjoyment of pregnancy and the magic surrounding childbirth from the mother.  We need to increase the awareness of this disorder and increase the healthcare services available to treat it, so all women have the chance to experience the joy they expect when becoming a parent.”

“Many women experience unhealthy levels of distress stemming from perinatal anxiety, but the lack of awareness leads to the disorder being left untreated,” said Senator Weinberg (D-Bergen).  “The imperativeness for increased public awareness of this disorder is to prevent the increased risk of future problems with anxiety and depression.  No woman should be unaware of how treatable this is, even the most severe stage, and this legislation would provide women the opportunity to experience normalcy and the joy of being a mother.”

The bill, S-1759, would direct the Commissioner of Health, in conjunction with the State Board of Medical Examiners and the New Jersey Board of Nursing, to work with health care facilities and licensed health care professionals to develop policies and procedures for the increased patient screening as well as education for patients.

The commissioner would also be required to establish a public awareness campaign addressing Perinatal Anxiety and its treatment.

The bill was released from committee by a vote of 10-0, and next heads to the full Senate for further consideration.