Maternal mental health refers to the mental wellness of pregnant people during and after pregnancy. There is commonly a focus on the postpartum period because it’s a time of rapid adjustment, both physically and mentally.
But while maternal mental health is gaining attention, it’s still an area that’s underrepresented — and that underrepresentation has been shown to adversely affect Black maternal mental health.
Black women see more adverse outcomes when it comes to their mental health after giving birth. A
Prioritizing mental health after giving birth can help empower Black moms and establish healthy attachments and bonds between parent and baby.
Here’s what you need to know about seeking support for Black maternal mental health.
Becoming a mom is an exciting time, but a mixture of fluctuating hormones, emotions, and lifestyle changes can spark mental health issues, even if you’ve never experienced any mental health challenges before.
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a mental health condition that involves low mood, low self-esteem, sleep disturbances, anxiety, and difficulties bonding with your baby. It’s different from the “baby blues” because of its intensity.
Postpartum anxiety can seem similar to PPD, but the distinguishing feature of this condition is persistent, excessive worry. It’s often accompanied by feelings of restlessness, fatigue, poor concentration, and sleep disturbances.
Postpartum psychosis is rare and requires quick intervention. This psychiatric illness can present days after giving birth. Symptoms include rapidly changing moods and confusion as well as hallucinations, paranoia, or both.
In addition to these conditions, insomnia, PTSD, and feelings of guilt, stress, and overwhelm are also commonly seen in moms after giving birth.
Racial disparities are seen in many areas of the medical system, including Black maternal health. These biases and disparities can affect the diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for mental health conditions.
While PPD affects approximately
Many Black women report feeling like they have to be strong for those around them, which may make it more difficult to share feelings associated with “weakness.”
Black women also report feeling as though their medical concerns are not taken seriously, which may make the experience of going to the doctor all the more difficult.
However, not getting mental health treatment after childbirth can lead to worsening levels of depression, anxiety, or general unwellness. It can even lead to physical symptoms that can affect both mother and baby as well as other members of the family.
Seeking mental health support can seem daunting if you don’t know where to start, but there are many ways to get help.
Talk with your doctor
One of the first steps to getting help is reaching out to a trusted healthcare professional, whether that’s your primary care provider, your obstetrician, or a mental health professional.
If you don’t feel comfortable doing this alone, you can bring a loved one to help relay your symptoms and feelings. If you feel like the healthcare professional isn’t taking your symptoms seriously, don’t be afraid to talk with someone else.
Contact a helpline
Reaching out to a dedicated helpline can also provide assistance and support in real time. The Maternal and Child Health Bureau provides the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline. Call or text 833-TLC-MAMA (833-852-6262) to talk with a trained counselor 24/7. It’s free and confidential.
If you’re in immediate mental distress, you can call or text 988 to reach 988 Lifeline, a hotline that’s also available 24/7 for urgent mental health support.
Join a support group
Talking with other new parents can help you feel less alone. In-person and virtual options are available.
Postpartum Support International offers a list of support groups, which include options for Black moms. You can also ask for information on support groups at hospitals or local community centers.
As the friend, family member, or colleague of someone going through the postpartum period, you can be an important resource for support. Having a strong support system can alleviate feelings of loneliness, depression, or anxiety, and having someone to talk with or to help with tasks can reduce stress.
Being a shoulder to lean on can take many forms, including:
- going to doctors’ appointments together
- assisting with daily tasks in the home
- keeping an eye on baby while mom relaxes
- spending time with your loved one
- offering to go grocery shopping or prepare meals
- helping your loved get out of the house
- asking your loved one for a specific task they need done
Prioritizing mental health support for Black moms during and after pregnancy is crucial for the well-being of both mom and baby.
Disparities in healthcare can lead to Black parents not feeling heard or supported, but seeking support from a trusted healthcare professional, reaching out to support groups, and leaning on loved ones can make a significant difference.
Together, we can work toward ensuring Black maternal mental health receives the attention and support it deserves.