UNIVERSITY PARK | While preliminary studies suggest that as many as 15 percent of all new mothers suffer from pregnancy-related depression, little overall research is available on the prevalence and treatment of this condition. Researchers in the College of Health Professions at Governors State University are currently conducting research to assess the prevalence of pregnancy related depression in new mothers. In order to complete the research, the college is seeking interested mothers to voluntarily participate in the study.

This confidential survey is open to all mothers who have children 1 or younger. Participants also have the option to stop involvement at any time during the survey. The university's Counseling Lab and Office of Student Development are also providing free counseling services to participants, if needed.

Because of the lack of research in this area, this survey is important, said Cara Warzynski, research coordinator for the project, in a news release. "The results will help us to develop future research efforts and guide recommendations for treatment."

The pregnancy-related depression research is one of several projects developed under the college's Building Capacity in Health Disparities Research program. The program, which began in September 2006 and runs through September 2011, provides an opportunity for faculty to develop community-based research projects. It is funded by a $5 million grant from the National Institutes of Health's National Center on Minority Health and Health Disparities.

Those who are interested in participating in the new mother survey, can contact Cara Warzynski in the College of Health Professions at (708) 235-7393.

- THE TIMES