Breaking the Stigma: 5 Ways to Talk about Maternal Mental Health
May is Maternal Mental Health Month, and it's a chance for us to address something that touches many of our lives. So many mothers struggle silently with their mental health, and it's time we bring those conversations out of the shadows. Let’s explore together why it’s so important to speak openly about these challenges and how we can make a real difference in the way we talk about maternal mental health.
Understanding the Impact
Did you know that 1 in 5 women faces mental health challenges during pregnancy or after giving birth? These struggles can show up as depression, anxiety, or even the lesser-known 'baby blues.' It’s not just the moms who feel the impact—these issues can affect the whole family, including the baby. Here’s what’s really startling:
20% of women go through these maternal mental health disorders.
Too many of these women don’t get the help they desperately need.
Without support, the effects can linger, causing long-term problems for both mom and child.
The Stigma and Its Consequences
The stigma attached to maternal mental health often comes from cultural and social myths about what it means to be a “good” mother. It makes moms feel ashamed or not good enough, which keeps many from seeking the help they really need. Every parent knows we don’t need anymore reasons to doubt ourselves.
When we stay silent, we prolong suffering and make it harder to get the support that could make all the difference.
How to Change the Conversation
1. Educate Yourself and Others
Learning the facts about maternal mental health is a crucial first step in making a change. Take some time to understand the symptoms, risks, and available treatments. Then, share what you've learned with others in your community to dispel hurtful myths and misconceptions. Learn more here.
2. Listen Without Judgment
We make it easier for mothers to share their feelings and experiences by creating a safe and supportive space in our circles. When we listen with an open heart and mind, truly hearing without downplaying emotions or comparing ourselves to others, we can make a world of difference. We want to be empathetic listeners, rather than sympathetic listeners. Learn more about effective listening and communication from another incredible social worker, Brene Brown, here: Brené Brown on Empathy vs Sympathy
3. Share Your Story
If you've struggled with your mental health as a parent, think about sharing your story. It is important to do your healing first around your story to ensure that you feel resolved around it living in the public beyond you, however once you feel ready to take this brave step- know that there are so many that will benefit from hearing the shared experience and wisdom you have to offer. Your experiences spark change. By speaking up, you make the issue more approachable and less isolating for others who might be feeling alone in their struggles. Your voice could be the one that makes a difference.
4. Advocate for Better Support Systems
Help push for better healthcare policies that ensure accessible and effective treatment for maternal mental health, like routine screenings during and after pregnancy. The purpose of #MMHWeek2024 is to raise awareness of maternal mental health disorders, share solidarity and support, and combat stigma and shame. During the week, TheBlueDotProject social media campaign will share daily stories from people who have been impacted to encourage others to share their own stories to help others know they are not alone and there is hope and help. Learn more about TheBlueDotProject social media plans here.
5. *Really* Talk About It
You don’t have to share your personal story if you’re not ready for it. Instead, bring maternal mental health into your everyday chats, whether at parent group meetings, social gatherings, or online. This might look like mentioning an article you read, thoughtfully checking in with someone, or bringing up a statistic.
Looking Ahead
As we mark Maternal Mental Health Month, I challenge you to think about how you can help end the silence and stigma that too often surrounds maternal mental health. Mental health is as crucial as physical health, and every mother deserves to embark on her journey free from judgment.
Mamaya Health works to ensure no mother has to navigate these challenges alone. Visit our website to learn more about our services or to schedule a session with a maternal mental health therapist today.
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Which of these five steps speaks most to you?