By Caitlin Feldman, Policy Director
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This week, July 19–25th, we recognize Black Maternal Mental Health Week. Founded by Shades of Blue, it is an opportunity to raise awareness about the specific mental health challenges Black mothers face during pregnancy. Mental health challenges during the perinatal period (defined as the time during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum) are a significant complication of pregnancy and were the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths between 2008–2018.
Mental health conditions during the perinatal period, including depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and postpartum psychosis effect one in five women and one in ten men. These numbers are more staggering for Black women and families, who not only experience maternal mortality at three to four times the rate of white women, but are two to four times more likely to experience maternal mental health conditions. Furthermore, Black women are among the most under-treated groups for depression and other maternal mental health conditions in the U.S.
These alarming statistics shine a spotlight on the ongoing crisis of racial and health inequity in Ohio and the U.S. overall. In health care settings, Black women often encounter significant barriers accessing prenatal and postpartum care, lack access to culturally competent care and comprehensive screenings, and face a greater likelihood of poorer quality care than white women. When families interact with the health care system, they are more likely to interact with other potentially harmful systems.
Not insignificantly, Black women may hesitate to bring their mental health challenges to the attention of health care providers for fear of involvement with Child Protective Services (CPS), as Black mothers are investigated and deemed unfit at a much higher rate than white mothers—even when controlling for factors such as education and income.
While perinatal mental health conditions are treatable, this complicated web of fear, inadequate care, and negative experiences prevent many Black women from seeking treatment due to overall mistrust of the healthcare system.
From July 19–25th, POEM Rise is amplifying awareness of Black maternal mental health by hosting events throughout the week. Consider attending a virtual event, or take time to review some of these resources to learn more about the importance of Black Maternal Mental Health Week:
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