<P> Depression is a condition with both mental and physical side effects and can be very debilitating depending on the severity . The risk factors vary from person to person . The risk factors vary from person to person and women are typically diagnosed with depression more than men . Other than trauma, physical illness, certain personality traits, and previous family history, pregnancy can be a cause of depression in women . Symptoms of this disease include, loss of interest in activities, difficulty focusing, thinking, making decisions, and remembering things, anxiety, irritation, slowed speaking, physical pains, and feelings of sadness and worthlessness . Any combination of these symptoms makes simple tasks seem daunting and almost impossible . Women who just gave birth are already managing recovering from the severe physical symptoms while taking care of a newborn child and adding symptoms of depression to this mixture can be a huge burden on them . When these new mothers go back to work they have the added stress of worrying about their child and balancing their family and work roles . Mothers who return to work soon after a birth of a child are likely to get depressed than other mothers; therefore, longer paid maternity leave has the potential to help new mothers . Women will have more time to recover from giving birth both mentally and physically, which can help prevent the onset of depression . </P> <P> Four states currently offer paid family leave: California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Rhode Island . In New Jersey, women who took paid leave in the year after giving birth were 40% less likely to receive public aid or food stamps . According to a California - based study, 87% of employers reported that the paid leave requirement did not increase costs; 9% note that it saved money due to decreased turnover and other costs . </P> <P> Though the overall labor force participation has declined since the year 2000, some economists argue that paid maternity leave in California has increased labor force participation among mothers . Mothers who receive paid maternity leave may be more likely to return to employment later, and then work more hours and earn higher wages . </P> <P> Less favorable maternity leave policies may inhibit a woman's career trajectory and promotion prospects . The extended period of absence of such policies often reduce a women's economic status and opportunities . During this hiatus, their job skills and experiences may deteriorate thus limiting their potential advancement . </P>

When will the us have paid maternity leave