Nurturing Mental Wellness: A Perinatal Therapist's Reflection on Maternal Mental Health Day
During a discussion with a client, she shared that her husband’s father had kept a journal of his first year of life. While there were tender moments between father and newborn son, within the passages was an unacknowledged, yet glaringly obvious mother’s mental health struggle. Mom had a bad day; had to take the day off work. Mom has been in bed again. Took you to your 6-month checkup. And so, on.
This story represents one of many where mothers navigate the complexities of motherhood with prevailing sadness, or minds clouded by doubt and worry.
May 1st marks World Maternal Mental Health Day, which draws attention and awareness to essential mental health concerns impacting mothers and their families. Without such acknowledgment there is a risk that these individuals struggles would go unnoticed beneath the surface of societal expectations and the inclination to remain silent.
As a perinatal therapist, I've had the privilege of working with mothers during one of the most transformative periods of their lives. Today, I offer insights into the challenges faced by mothers and the crucial role of mental health support during the perinatal period.
Understanding Maternal Mental Health
Maternal mental health encompasses a spectrum of challenges, ranging from postpartum depression and anxiety to more severe conditions like postpartum psychosis. Maternal mental health challenges during the perinatal period, encompassing pregnancy and the first year postpartum, are more common than many realize. About 1 in 5 pregnant women and mothers will experience depression or anxiety symptoms. These conditions can affect any birthing individual, regardless of age, background, or socioeconomic status. However, many women suffer in silence, fearing judgment or misunderstanding.
Breaking the Stigma
One of the most significant barriers to addressing maternal mental health challenges is the stigma and misconceptions that still surround the topic, preventing many mothers from seeking help. As perinatal therapists, it's our responsibility to challenge these stigmas and create a culture of openness and acceptance around mental health. By raising awareness and educating both mothers and healthcare providers, we can encourage more women to seek the support they need without fear of judgment. I worry less about a mother who becomes depressed or anxious, as a provider, I know these conditions are treatable; I worry far more about the mother who stays depressed or anxious for fear of getting help or the misbelief that motherhood bears suffering.
The Impact on Mothers and Families
Perinatal mental health challenges can have profound effects on a mother's well-being and extend beyond her to the well-being of her entire family unit. Studies have shown that untreated maternal mental health conditions can lead to adverse outcomes for babies and children. Depression and anxiety can disrupt bonding between mother and infant and impair her ability to respond to her baby's cues. This can, in turn, affect the child's emotional and cognitive development. Untreated mental health conditions during pregnancy can lead to negative birth outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight. Additionally, partners and other family members are at increased risk for depression and anxiety symptoms as they navigate through the complexities of supporting their loved ones.
The greatest impact; however, is on the mother herself. Maternal suicide is the leading cause of death in the perinatal period. More often than not, I find mothers are taking care of everyone but themselves. During a troubling encounter with her OB, the provider expressed concern to my client that her postpartum depression would hinder her ability to care for her baby. This unwarranted warning instilled fear and panic in this mother, leading her to neglect even the small acts of self-care she had been practicing and solely caring for her son. I promptly intervened and corrected the OB's misguided remarks. However, the damage was done. Eventually with the right support and intervention, this client gradually began to prioritize her own well-being and healing while being a nurturing and attentive mother to her son.
The Role of Healthcare Providers
Healthcare providers play a crucial role in identifying and addressing maternal mental health challenges. By equipping obstetricians, midwives, and pediatricians with the knowledge and tools to screen for symptoms during routine appointments and provide referrals to mental health professionals, we can create a comprehensive support system for mothers. However, a significant hurdle lies in garnering buy-in from healthcare providers, highlighting the need for concerted efforts to integrate mental health care. Increasing awareness and education and integrating mental health care into standard maternal and child health services, we can ensure that mothers receive the support they need from the moment they begin their journey into motherhood without without bearing the burden alone.
Perinatal Therapy Support and Resources
Perinatal providers support mothers through the challenges of pregnancy and early motherhood. Therapists help mothers explore their deepest thoughts and core beliefs around parenting and motherhood, develop coping strategies, and strength their support networks. Perinatal therapists can also address underlying issues such as past trauma or relationship difficulties that may be contributing to maternal mental health challenges. These challenges are not a sign of weakness but rather a common experience that many women face. There is a wealth of support and resources available for mothers struggling with their mental well-being, including therapy, support groups, and online communities.
Conclusion
As we commemorate World Maternal Mental Health Day, let us acknowledge the prevalence of maternal mental health challenges, break down stigma, and advocate for accessible mental health support. While challenges are common, suffering silently should not be an inherent part of being a mother or birthing individual. With increased attention, awareness, and supportive resources, we can systemically address maternal mental health challenges and create a world where we prioritize women’s mental well-being. As perinatal therapists, we believe that happy and healthy mothers raise happy and healthy babies. We stand ready to walk alongside mothers on this journey
Together, let us nurture the mental wellness of mothers and cultivate a future where every child grows up in the embrace of a mentally healthy and thriving family.