Empowering new moms during minority mental health awareness month
Published in March of Dimes on July 17, 2024
New moms from racial and ethnic minority groups are less likely to get treatment for mental health conditions.
July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. For new and expecting moms, this is an opportunity to raise awareness around the range of emotions they face, the unique challenges affecting moms who are from minority groups, and resources available for support.
Mental health disorders and new moms
Most people know about postpartum depression or are familiar with the "baby blues", but more can occur during pregnancy or up to 12 months after a baby is born.
1 in 5 new moms experience mental health disorders, with symptoms like anxiety, excessive worry, rage, and hallucinations. But 75% go untreated and even more go undiagnosed.
Fortunately, mental health disorders are temporary and treatable.
How do they affect minority moms?
Women of color are disproportionately affected by these conditions. Black women are twice as likely as white women to experience mental health disorders but half as likely to receive care.
Research shows that moms who belong to minority groups are less likely to get treatment for these conditions. Reasons for this include social determinants of health, limited access to services, cultural beliefs, and unequal treatment. Even when care is accessed, it's often of lower quality.
Where can I find support?
As a Local Coordinator for Postpartum Support International, I connect new moms in Minneapolis and Baltimore to mental health support. Here are 4 resources I recommend, particularly to minority moms:
Resource #1: Screening and education
Mental health screenings for new moms typically occur during their six-week postpartum visit, but less than 20% are screened. Understanding the symptoms can help minority moms advocate for themselves, receive timely intervention, and reduce cultural stigma that may be associated with these conditions. This discussion tool is useful for tracking and discussing symptoms with your provider.
Resource #2: National helplines
To talk to someone, call or text the PSI Helpline at 1-800-944-4773, available in English and Spanish. Or call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-852-6262, also available 24/7, with interpreter services in 60 languages.
For emergencies, or if you or anyone you know has thoughts of harming themselves or their baby, contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or 988.
Resource #3: Provider Directories
If you’re looking for a therapist, psychiatrist, or other qualified mental health provider, search PSI’s free online directory, which includes providers of color. For additional provider directories by minority group, visit the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance.
Resource #4: Support Groups
Support groups are a great way to receive emotional support, connecting new moms with shared experiences. If appropriate, it can often be more cost-effective than traditional therapy. PSI offers over 50 free online support groups, including specialized groups for moms from minority groups.
All moms deserve a happy and healthy transition to motherhood. They deserve to feel supported during their journey.
Connecting new moms to knowledge, resources, and support is essential. It can empower them to advocate for their mental health and access the compassionate care they deserve.
