Students from the American University of the Caribbean (AUC) School of Medicine’s Community Engagement Certificate Program, in partnership with the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Mid-Isle, successfully hosted a symposium titled “Clinical Update on Postpartum Depression” on July 26th at Mélange restaurant.
The event brought together family doctors, midwives from the St. Maarten Medical Center, midwives and nurses from the White and Yellow Cross Foundation, and other key stakeholders. Special attendees included Christopher Waver, Chief of Staff from the Ministry of Health, and public health specialists from Collective and Preventive Services.
This event was a key initiative of the Postpartum Awareness Project, a collaboration between AUC and the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Mid-Isle, aimed at raising awareness of postpartum depression in the Caribbean. AUC students Hilary Serbin and Talina Fuentes highlighted that postpartum depression affects one in six mothers globally. They discussed symptoms such as persistent sadness, irritability, feelings of disconnect from the baby, excessive worry about caregiving capabilities, guilt over bonding difficulties, sleep disturbances, and thoughts of self-harm. The importance of identifying women at risk for postpartum depression during pregnancy was underscored. Additionally, the role of family members in intervening and seeking support for loved ones was emphasized.
The symposium facilitated discussions on how to collaborate on support services to ensure comprehensive physical and mental wellness for women throughout pregnancy and postpartum.
For more information about the Postpartum Awareness Project, please contact the Rotary Club of St. Maarten Mid-Isle at rotarysxm.mi@gmail.com.
Contact: Rotary Club of St. Maarten Mid-Isle Email: rotarysxm.mi@gmail.com