Perinatal Mental Health: Screening and Supporting Women in a Rural State
Perinatal Mental Health: Screening and Supporting Women in a Rural State
APRIL 24, 2026
12-1:00 PM
Live webinar by Zoom
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) are among the most common complications of pregnancy and the postpartum period, affecting a substantial proportion of birthing individuals and families. This presentation explores the recognition and treatment of perinatal mental health concerns within the distinctive context of rural Maine, where geographic distance, limited resources, and social factors can shape both risk and access to care. Participants will review common clinical presentations and contributing conditions affecting rural birthing populations, consider practical methods for identifying perinatal mental health concerns through screening, and examine how collaborative care approaches, advocacy, and community resources can strengthen support for women and families during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Objectives
After attending this presentation, participants will be able to:
Understand ways a rural perinatal practice can include collaborative care and advocacy.
Identify risk factors, comorbid conditions, and additional considerations for our birthing population in rural Maine.
Recognize how these conditions and considerations can impact perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs).
Review how to screen for PMADs in perinatal patients.
Consider the potentially beneficial resources for working with birthing families.
Presenter
Dr. Diana Prescott is a dedicated psychologist with nearly three decades of experience advocating for rural and underserved communities. As the Federal Advocacy Coordinator for the Maine Psychological Association (MePA), Dr. Prescott has played a pivotal role in shaping national policies that address the mental health needs of marginalized populations. Her commitment to improving access to mental health services in rural areas earned her the prestigious Heiser Award from the American Psychological Association (APA) in 2024. Dr. Prescott’s passion for rural mental health stems from her upbringing on a farm, where she witnessed firsthand the unique challenges faced by rural communities, including high rates of suicide and teen pregnancy. Her advocacy extends internationally, with presentations on rural integrated care at major conferences in countries such as the United Kingdom, Japan, and Canada. In addition to the Heiser Award, Dr. Prescott has received numerous accolades, including the APA Practice Organization’s Federal Advocacy Award and a 2023 APA Presidential Citation. She has also served on the APA Board of Directors and chaired the APA Committee on Rural Health. Dr. Prescott holds a Ph.D. in Psychology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she specialized in rural community psychology. She remains committed to advancing equitable healthcare access and continues to be a strong voice for those living in rural areas, both nationally and internationally.
