Maternal Mental Health

The heartbreaking case of Lindsay Clancy and her recent trial coverage has increased discussion of maternal mental health and treatment in this country. The case has prompted many mothers to speak publicly about their own experiences with intrusive thoughts, psychosis, and the fear of not being believed or adequately treated. We urgently need increased awareness and discussion of these conditions to reduce stigma and improve access and treatment.

One in five pregnant and postpartum women in the United States will experience a maternal mental health condition. Postpartum depression is the most familiar of those, but the range of conditions is wider than most people realize: anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar mood episodes, and postpartum psychosis all fall under this umbrella. Women may struggle with these conditions during pregnancy, after a pregnancy loss, or in the year following the birth of a child. Postpartum Support International's guide to perinatal mental health conditions helps identify the symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options for each. They emphasize that someone does not need a diagnosis to ask for help. 

The Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health's overview of maternal mental health disorders notes that suicide and overdose linked to maternal mental health disorders are now a leading cause of pregnancy-related death in the U.S., and that fewer than one in five women are ever screened. There are also sharp racial and geographic disparities in both prevalence and access to treatment. 

If you or someone you love is struggling, please contact the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: call or text 833-852-6262. You can also visit Postpartum Support International's website to find more information, support groups, and providers who can help..