We need to discuss perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) and their effect on maternal mental health. This is a leading complication for pregnant and postpartum women, with 1 in 7 experiencing these issues. However, for me, as a Black woman, the rates are even higher. Studies show that 40 percent of Black birthing people experience maternal mental health symptoms. Yet, despite how common these issues are, Black women are less likely to receive treatment due to various barriers, including stigma, fear and low availability of services staffed by Black providers.
It’s time that the healthcare system recognizes the critical importance of mental health during the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, including the emotional, psychological and physical stress that birthing people endure. Unfortunately, these issues often go unaddressed, and after giving birth, Black women are sent home with a new little person who needs them when they often are without the support they need for ourselves.
Racism and discrimination complicate this issue further. As a result, Black women often go unheard, from our pain in childbirth to mental health and physical conditions postpartum. We need more Black birth workers and mental health providers who understand our unique challenges. Healthcare leaders should be training pediatricians to check in with birthing people during appointments, starting within a week of their child’s birth. Finally, local capacity to care for Black mothers and birthing people must increase.
Read more at NewsOne.com.
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