Dr. Deirdre Ryan is the Medical Director of the BC Reproductive Mental Health Program, part of the BC Children’s Hospital and an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority.
When interviewing and filming Dr. Ryan for the “Treatments” videos in our “KidCareCanada Postpartum Depression Series”, we were delighted to discover a warm, compassionate and non-judgmental woman. Dr. Ryan clearly and patiently described the illnesses she sees in the patients she cares for. Her explanations about treatments were clear and balanced. She showed the utmost respect for her patients and that she understood the concerns of women and families needing treatment. Dr. Ryan seems to be exactly the right person to meet with moms who are feeling vulnerable, dealing with anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
It is well known that the leadership in an organization sets a tone that permeates the organization. Having Dr. Ryan in the leadership role with a team of specialized and multidisciplinary professionals means that her kindness, warmth and approach can be found among the many professionals who make up the Reproductive Mental Health Program.
Dr. Ryan speaks passionately about the value of early treatment. We hope that the videos we made with Dr. Ryan will encourage expecting and new mothers to find help if they are concerned that “something might be wrong”.