Perfectionism works for some diabetics, but not for new moms

BOSTON — People who demand perfection of themselves may be affected, often for the worse, by the fact that they can’t live up to that standard. But under some circumstances, perfectionism may help people to live longer.

Pregnant women who feel like they should be ideal mothers display an elevated risk for developing postpartum depression, scientists reported May 30 at the Association for Psychological Science annual convention.