This month's cover photo illustrates the strain of postpartum depression (PPD)-a mood disorder experienced by an estimated 13% of U.S. mothers. PPD, which can last for many months following childbirth, is associated with feelings of intense anxiety, sadness, and despair. Beyond jeopardizing the mother's psychological health and overall well-being, PPD can also negatively affect mother-child bonding and the partner relationship.

Figure. This month's cover photo illustrates the strain of postpartum depression-a mood disorder experienced by an estimated 13% of U.S. mothers. Photo by cristinarosepix / Shutterstock.

In her article "Postpartum Depression: A Nurse's Guide," Barbara Marie Alba offers an in-depth look at PPD and how nurses can assess, screen, and help support women with this condition. She notes that there are several barriers to PPD diagnosis and treatment-including stigma and a lack of patient knowledge-which nurses are positioned to address. "First and foremost," Alba writes, "nurses can demystify postpartum mood disorders by letting women know they are not alone, are not to blame, and can get better."

"Maternity Nursing Stops Too Soon," an article originally published in AJN in 1975, is also featured in this issue (see From the AJN Archives). In it, maternity nursing leader Reva Rubin urges greater care for women during the postpartum period, which she described as "the most vulnerable period" for mothers and their families.-Diane Szulecki, editor