Description:
OPD Points: 5
Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) are among the most critical mental health challenges affecting new parents, with significant implications for the wellbeing of both the caregiver and the developing infant. Increased clinician awareness and diagnostic precision are vital to supporting families during this vulnerable period.
In this evidence-informed presentation, Joanne explores the spectrum of Peri-Partum Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PPMADs), including their diagnostic criteria and clinical presentations. Through compelling case examples, she illustrates how various conditions may manifest in diverse perinatal contexts.
The presentation also examines key risk factors that may predispose mothers to PPMADs—including those stemming from individual, infant, and environmental factors. This session equips practitioners with a foundational understanding necessary for early identification and appropriate referral.
This is Part I of a two-part series, with the second session focusing on therapeutic interventions and attachment implications.
Key Learning Objectives / Outcomes:
By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to:
Identify the range of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders and their diagnostic features.
Recognise common clinical presentations of PPMADs.
Understand and evaluate risk factors contributing to PPMADs from the perspective of the caregiver, infant, and environment.
Apply clinical insights to support early detection and care planning.
Assessment:
Presenter / Provider:
Joanne Zagnoev
Presenter Qualifications:
Joanne Zagnoev is a clinical psychologist. She has been in private practice for 25 years. Her therapeutic approach is psychodynamic but her works is client informed and therefore eclectic. She is a popular public speaker and has often appeared on both national TV and radio. She wrote a well-received column for a national magazine for 4 years entitled “Piece of Mind”. She presented a paper at an international congress on the Perinatal Mood and Anxiety disorders. While Joanne works across the spectrum of adult psychotherapy, she has a special interest in the PMADs. Joanne has undergone training in both Attachment Theory and Sensory Processing Disorder to augment this work.
