You are not alone. Perinatal depression occurs in 10 to 15 percent of women who are pregnant or have given birth. There is treatment available. The Women's Wellness and Counseling Service offers supportive counseling and medication options.

• If you think that you have the symptoms of antenatal or postpartum depression, your first step should be to contact your obstetrician or family doctor.

• If you worry that you might harm yourself or your baby, don't wait to see your doctor!  Go immediately to your nearest emergency room or call 911.

• Tell your doctor or nurse exactly what you have been feeling and experiencing. Don't be afraid to be honest.

• Your doctor or nurse will ask you questions to determine whether you need additional help.

If you and your doctor decide that you need additional, expert help, your doctor will call the Women's Wellness and Counseling Service and make a referral for you. If your doctor or nurse has not heard of the Women's Wellness and Counseling Service, please ask them to visit this Web site for more information.

All appointments are scheduled when a doctor or nurse makes a referral. You cannot call and set up an appointment on your own.

Following the referral, the Women's Wellness and Counseling Service will call you to set up an appointment for an assessment interview. You will be asked a variety of questions and may be asked to fill out certain forms in an effort to determine what type of treatment will be best for you.

Therapy will generally be provided in a brief, time-limited format.