Legislator and wife Mary Jo have worked to break down the stigmas attached to the illness
Acting Gov. Richard J. Codey Saturday signed a joint legislative resolution designating Oct. 20 of each year as “Postpartum Depression Awareness Day” in New Jersey.
Codey signed the resolution in Roseland while Gov. Jon Corzine is temporarily out of state. As Senate president, Codey (D-Essex) was the sponsor of the resolution along with Assemblywoman Mila Jasey (D-Essex).
It is estimated that 10 to 15 percent of new mothers suffer from postpartum depression (PPD). The resolution (SJR20) is designed to create an entire day centered around the illness in order to increase awareness so that women will be encouraged to talk openly about it and, more importantly, seek help. The resolution requests that the governor issue a proclamation calling upon public officials and residents to observe this day with appropriate activities and programs.
Tags: depression, postpartum, postpartum depression, ppd
