[Perinatal prevention network for mentally burdened and adolescent mothers]

Psychiatric disorder in pregnancy and after child birth as well as psychological distress are well known factors that put child wellbeing at risk. They are, however, often estimated as less frequent and less severe then they occur. Postpartum psychiatric disorder meets mothers of all social classes, they are highly stigmatized, therefore often disregarded and remain undetected. The affected mothers socially withdraw themselves due to feelings of shame, fear and guilt. They cut themselves off from psychiatric treatment and from support by child welfare institutions. The regional network "Hand in Hand" in the Rhine-Neckar-area consisting of psychiatrists, psychotherapists, gynaecologists, paediatricians, social workers and midwives uses and connects the resources available in public health and youth aid to support both the child wellbeing as well as the mental health of mothers. Our program begins by identifying risk factors for mothers' postpartum disorders and continues by increasing awareness with the previous named professional groups, so that they act promptly and offer treatment and support. The following paper describes our network activities emphasizing anti-stigma, instruction of professionals and intervention with affected families.