MATERNAL MENTAL HEALTH

May — Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month

How much does our society truly understand about the mental health challenges of mothers during and after pregnancy?

May is here to remind us that maternal mental health matters. This year, the first day of May is dedicated to World Maternal Mental Health Awareness, so that we can recognize the significance of emotional well-being for mothers once and for all.

Join us for Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week (May 5-11) to share stories, spread the symbol of support with the blue dot, and break the silence around postpartum challenges. Let’s unite in making maternal mental health a visible, shared experience. #MMHWeek2024

Prevalence of Postpartum Depression

Globally, postpartum depression affects approximately 1 in 7 mothers.

Up to 100% of individuals have “intrusive” thoughts surrounding childbirth.

Around 10% of pregnant women and 13% after childbirth face mental disorders, primarily depression.

Up to 85% of individuals experience hormonal changes referred to as “baby blues” after giving birth.

According to WHO, suicide is a significant cause of death among pregnant and postpartum women.

What is Maternal Mental Health?

Maternal mental health describes the emotional well-being of women through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. It’s a state that reflects the psychological and emotional challenges that can accompany motherhood.

Mothers experience different emotions and challenges at each stage.

During pregnancy, the anticipation and preparation for a new life can bring joy but also anxiety and uncertainty.
The birth starts a big process of change. Therefore, it requires significant physical and emotional strength.
Postpartum is the process of adjusting to motherhood and the responsibility for a new life, which can be overwhelming. During this state, mothers feel emotions that are both rewarding and challenging.

How Does Pregnancy Affect Mothers’ Mental Health?

Pregnancy introduces significant psychological changes to mothers. First of all, from the moment of conception, women experience hormonal changes that affect their emotional state and lead to increased vulnerability to anxiety, depression, and mood swings.

This emotional rollercoaster is combined with concerns about the baby's health, changes to their body, and thoughts about motherhood. Not surprisingly, all this can be overwhelming.

Even after giving birth, the challenges continue because mothers face postpartum recovery with new responsibilities. As a result, this period is filled with complex feelings of joy, anxiety, and uncertainty.

Risk Factors of Postpartum Depression

History of depression, anxiety, or premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Lack of support from family or friends

Anxiety or negative feelings about the pregnancy

Complications in pregnancy or birth (such as high-risk pregnancy)

History of sexual abuse

Unplanned pregnancy

Effects of Postpartum Depression on Children

Did you know that postpartum depression can have long-lasting effects on a child's life? In fact, it's not just a phase that mothers go through — it can influence a child's emotional and behavioral development well into their later years.

Studies reveal that children of mothers who experience postpartum depression face higher risks of experiencing emotional challenges and developmental delays. These difficulties can manifest in various ways, including mental health disorders such as ADHD, anxiety, or depression.

Get Help for Maternal Depression

If you're facing the challenges of maternal depression, remember, help is close at hand.

Siyan Clinical Corporation is here to provide support and expert guidance to improve your maternal mental health. Your well-being is our priority as we strive for a healthier tomorrow for you and your loved ones.

Announcements

New May 2024: Siyan’s Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is now offering Telehealth!

To learn more about the IOP program, please visit: https://siyanclinical.com/intensive-outpatient-program-iop/. To set up an IOP appointment, please call 707-206-7268 and ask to be enrolled in our IOP program. Our front office staff will help answer any questions you have and help get you scheduled in a timeframe and format that works for you.

This monthly Recovery Newsletter is now a part of our new endeavor to become a Certified Community Behavioral Health Program (CCBHC), funded by SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). Topics will range from addressing managing mental health as well as substance abuse. To learn more about Siyan becoming a CCBHC, please visit: https://siyanresearch.org/CCBHC/

If you or someone you love would like to schedule an evaluation to see whether you are a fit for the CCBHC program, please contact us at 707-206-7268 or email psychresearch@siyanclinical.com to enroll. We are accepting new patients and accept most insurances including Medi-Cal and Medicare for our CCBHC program.

Every conversation is confidential and we offer telehealth. One day at a time.

Sincerely,

The CCBHC Team

Disclaimer: This product was supported [in part] by grant number H79SM086652 from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The content of this publication does not necessarily reflect the views or polices of SAMHSA or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

SIYAN CLINICAL RESEARCH | [CCBHC]