The tragic case of the mother who admitted to drowning her five children has shone a light on postpartum depression. But rather than raise public awareness of the problem, some worry it may skew the facts.

Andrea Yates, 36, was a stay-at-home mom in a quiet neighbourhood in Houston, Texas. Her children ranged in age from six months to seven years. Neighbours say she was quiet and rarely went outside.

Immigrant women are at far greater risk for depression during pregnancy and the postpartum period than Canadian- born women, a Montreal team of researchers has found.

An alarming 42 per cent of 120 pregnant immigrant women scored above the cut-off point for depression in a screening test, according to a study published recently in the journal Transcultural Psychiatry.

My cousin is pregnant and has a history of depression. Is she at risk for postpartum depression? Is postpartum depression any different from regular depression? What can I do to help? - Cousin who cares

Postpartum depression occurs in 10 to 20 per cent of mothers up to a year after giving birth. Some women are more susceptible than others, including those who have:

- a history of depression

- a great deal of stress

- a family history of depression

- had difficulty giving birth

- a sick baby

- no friends or family to support them.

Expecting a child can bring tremendous joy and excitement, and the period following the birth may well be the happiest time in parents' lives. Unfortunately, it may also be one of the most stressful and anxiety provoking periods in the life of a young family.

Health: Living in Depths of despair: Some health-care officials are worried women suffering from post-partum depression aren't seeking help

Caroline is thinking hard, staring off into the distance, gripping the arm of the overstuffed couch with both hands.

She looks confused by the question that Paula Bodnarek has just asked her: ``Are you enjoying life?''

Caroline struggles to surface with her answer. She is wedged tightly in the corner of the vast beige, otherwise empty, sofa. She can't seem to find her voice.