Empowering mothers on maternal mental health day

Introduction 

We all know someone–a family member, friend, co-worker–who has experienced a perinatal mental health disorder. But we don’t talk about it enough. 

As Mother’s Day approaches, we celebrate moms–not just for their love and dedication to their children, but for the journey they made to get there. 

Because let’s be honest: the transition to motherhood is hard. 

Today, on Maternal Mental Health Awareness Day, we have the opportunity to raise awareness around the range of emotions mothers may face and the resources available for support.

Perinatal mental health disorders

You’ve probably heard of postpartum depression or the ‘baby blues’. But there’s so much more than can occur during pregnancy or up to 12 months after a baby is born. 

1 in 5 new mothers experience perinatal mental health disorders also known as ‘mood disorders’. Symptoms can include anxiety, excessive worry, rage, and hallucinations. But 75% go untreated and even more go undiagnosed. 

The good news is that mood disorders are temporary and treatable.

Mental health support transformed my postpartum experience   

I experienced increased levels of anxiety and overwhelm after I had my daughter in 2021.

I was overly protective about germs when we had visitors. I constantly worried that I couldn’t produce enough milk for her. I called my pediatrician’s nurses line multiple times a week about every question or concern.

Thankfully, I accessed mental health support early. 

I joined a support group with other new moms. The early days of motherhood were isolating and I felt less alone when I met with this group. We supported each other through shared struggles. We celebrated our wins together. 

My husband and I also worked with a couples therapist. 2 out of 3 couples report a decline in marital satisfaction after having a baby. We were feeling the strain too – with frequent conflicts about chores and who got ‘me time’ when. Navigating these challenges with our therapist created more empathy and understanding between us. 

Finally, I worked with a life coach who helped me process my transition to motherhood, reevaluate my priorities (including my job), and re-design the life I wanted to live moving forward. 

This support gave me the skills to become a more empowered parent and partner. Most importantly, the support made me feel like myself again.

It transformed my experience so much that I started volunteering for Postpartum Support International (PSI). I wanted other new moms to know that support was available for them too. 

Helping new moms through Postpartum Support International

PSI is the leading non-profit offering support and resources to new parents experiencing mental health challenges during from pregnancy to the postpartum period. As a Local Support Coordinator, I provide empathy, information, and resources to new moms. 

Talking to more than 50 moms across the country has opened my eyes to the range of mood disorders. 

The mom who felt detached from her newborn. She struggled to balance everything in her life — moving to a new city and finishing grad school. She wasn’t feeling herself. 

The mom who was six weeks pregnant and previously medicated for a painful neurological disorder. She experienced severe withdrawal after her primary care provider advised her to wean from meds. She needed alternatives. 

And many more moms who reported crying constantly. The moms who felt resentment towards their babies for not sleeping. The moms who felt guilty for not doing enough. The moms who experienced regret for how much their life changed.

Each woman’s journey is unique—influenced by diverse backgrounds, support systems, medical histories, life circumstances, and income levels.

6 resources I recommend to new moms looking for support

Regardless of a mom’s condition and background, resources are available to anyone who isn’t feeling themselves. The best part is that these resources are free. 

Here are 6 resources I recommend to all new moms:

Resource #1: Postpartum Support International 

Everyone needs to know about PSI. Despite being the leading organization helping moms with mood disorders, I’m shocked most people have never heard of it–including medical professionals serving new moms like OBs and pediatricians.

PSI offers a range of free services–including a 24/7 national helpline, online support groups, specialized coordinators with lived experience, and educational materials. Learn more at https://www.postpartum.net/ or download the Connect by PSI app.

Resource #2: National helplines for mothers and their families 

If you need immediate help or just want to talk to someone about what you’re going through, call the PSI HelpLine (1-800-833-4773) or the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-TLC-MAMA) for free and confidential support.

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: Screening and education

Wondering if you have a mood disorder? OBs typically administer a screening questionnaire to assess symptoms during the six-week postpartum visit. But less than 20% of women are actually screened.

Learn more about the symptoms here and take the screening here. A score of 10-30 may be indicative  of depression. You can use this discussion tool to track your symptoms and discuss them with your provider. 

Resource #4: PSI Perinatal Health Mental Health Provider Directory

If you’ve been diagnosed with a mood disorder or suspect you have one, use PSI’s free online provider directory to find a psychiatrist, therapist, or other qualified provider. Search the database by zip code and insurance to find the best fit for you.

And if you don’t have time to do this yourself, contact the PSI HelpLine and they’ll do the research for you (free of charge). 

Resource #5: Peer Support Groups

Support groups are a great way to receive emotional support. The main benefit is connecting with others with lived or shared experiences. Support groups are often a more cost-effective option to traditional therapy. 

PSI offers 50+ virtual support groups tailored for different needs–including pregnancy loss, NICU parents, BIPOC individuals, and more. If you prefer to join a support group in person, check with OB or child’s pediatrician for referrals. Many local parenting centers, birth hospitals, yoga studios, and community centers offer them too.

It’s important to note that support groups are not a substitute for professional mental health treatment. 

Resource #6: Social Media 

In general, I recommend new moms take a break from social media as it often presents an unrealistic picture of motherhood. Instead, I encourage moms to engage in ‘positive’ social media–sources that provide community, information and education, and promote healthy interactions. 

PSI’s Facebook Group is an excellent example. In this closed and active group, you can post a question and receive responses from other moms and mental health professionals. Or use the keyword search to understand topics you’re curious about (like ‘depression’ or ‘intrusive thoughts’). You’ll find a wealth of information, and more importantly empathy and support from other moms who have been there. 

You can also search for ‘local neighborhood mom groups’ on Facebook. Most neighborhoods have this and it can be a great resource for new information in your community.

Getting help for a healthier transition to motherhood

The more we talk about our postpartum experiences, the less stigma, guilt and surprises there will be for new moms. Increasing awareness around mood disorders and support resources can help ensure every new mom connects with the support they need. Every mom deserves a happy and healthy transition to motherhood. Being proactive can even be life-saving.

To all new and expecting moms: You are not alone, you are not to blame, and with help you will be well. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness. It takes courage to reach out for support. 

And to friends and family of a new mom: These resources are for you too. Ask her how she’s really feeling. Encourage her to seek help if she’s not acting herself. 

Everyone has a role to play to reduce the stigma around mood disorders. Let’s build a better world where moms feel supported and empowered to thrive during their journey to motherhood.