Why Maternal Mental Health Matters
Maternal mental health is a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of overall well-being. While pregnancy and postpartum are commonly associated with joy and excitement, many women experience significant mental health challenges as well. Recognizing and addressing maternal mental health concerns is essential for both the well-being of mothers and the healthy development of their children. And that be treating and supporting the mental health of the birthing person, you are also supporting the health and wellness of the growing baby.
Understanding Maternal Mental Health
Maternal mental health refers to a mother’s emotional and psychological well-being during pregnancy and postpartum. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar psychosis and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop or worsen during this period, impacting not only the mother but also her child, family, and community.
The Reality of Maternal Mental Health Challenges
1 in 5 women will experience a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder (PMAD), though research and study present the possibility that this statistic is widely underreported and that it's really closer to 2-3 in 5 women. (stats here needed).
Many mothers suffer in silence due to stigma, fear, or lack of awareness or resources.
Postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar and psychosis and PTSD can affect bonding, breastfeeding, and overall maternal-infant health.
The Importance of Trauma-Informed Care
For mothers with a history of trauma, pregnancy, and childbirth can be triggering experiences that can be overlooked or misunderstood by their healthcare providers. Trauma-informed care recognizes past trauma and prioritizes emotional and physical safety in healthcare settings. Healthcare providers must:
Use compassionate communication.
Respect a mother’s autonomy and choices, complimenting their decisions and value as a mom, not interrupting or interfering.
Provide access to mental health resources.
How You Can Support Maternal Mental Health
Supporting maternal mental health requires a collective effort from healthcare providers, families, and communities. Here’s how you can help:
Listen Without Judgment – Validate a mother’s feelings without minimizing her experiences.
Encourage Professional Help – Normalize seeking therapy or medical treatment, and that taking care of yourself helps you better care for your baby.
Be an Advocate – Support policies and initiatives that promote mental health awareness and access to care and resources.
Create a Supportive Environment – Offer practical help, like babysitting, meal prep, folding clothes/doing laundry, or simply checking in and letting them know you love them and that they are not alone.
Breaking the Stigma
The stigma surrounding maternal mental health prevents many women from seeking the help they need. By speaking openly about these issues, we can break the cycle of silence and encourage more mothers to prioritize their mental well-being.
Maternal mental health matters because healthy moms are healthy families. By fostering awareness, advocating for better care, and offering support, and that no mother has to suffer in silence.
