This group is for support of those who have adopted and who are experiencing Post-Adoption Depression: stress, depression, the blues, after bringing home their child/children. You are not alone! This group will be a comfortable and supportive place for those new moms/dads questioning their decision to adopt, their parenting ability, and other post-adoption transition troubles!

In accord with the express wishes of the membership, this group is not open to mental health professionals, adoption professionals, or those who have not experienced/are not experiencing PADS. This is not the place to gather information on PADS; it is a support group for those *experiencing* it. We thank you for understanding if your membership is declined for these reasons.

Not sure if you are experiencing PADS? Take this test:

Diagnostic Criteria From DSM-IV

Five or more symptoms in a two-week period are cause for concern.
Symptoms include:

-Depressed mood most of the day, every day (feeling sad, empty, or tearful) or feeling exceptionally irritable.
-Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all or almost all activities.
-Significant weight loss or weight gain, increase or decrease in appetite.
-Insomnia or hypersomnia nearly every day.
-Psycho motor agitation or retardation nearly every day observable by others (restlessness or being slowed down).
-Fatigue or loss of energy nearly every day.
-Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt nearly every day.
-Diminished ability to think or concentrate or indecisiveness nearly every day.
-Suicidal thoughts or ideation.

PLEASE DO NOT CONSIDER THIS GROUP A REPLACEMENT FOR THERAPY AND/OR MEDICAL ATTENTION! We are here to support, not diagnose or treat depression and related issues. We are moms and dads, not medical professionals!! Please consider also seeking medical/psychological advice.