Brooke Wilson’s Post

Lived experience "data" is as vital to understanding perinatal mental healthcare challenge(s) as it is immeasurable. It provides a unique human context that goes beyond quantifying "numbers" and allows for qualifying of "emotion". Human feelings and insight are crucial in addressing more empathetic and effective healthcare. 🫂 Our lived experiences of PMH challenge profoundly impact our sense of selves... and that's okay. 🔎 Let's move our focus from the often unrealistic and unobtainable "recovery" of self, to instead focus on a positive and empowering "re(dis)covery" of self. #livedexperiencematters #perinatalmentalhealthmatters #infantmentalhealthmatters #connectioniseverything #keepingparenthoodreal #beckershospitalreview #MaternalMentalHealthMonth

Bringing a child into the world should be one of the most joyous experiences in a woman’s life. However, women are often challenged by mental health concerns during this stage in their lives. In fact, maternal mental health concerns touch one in five women. It’s so important that we prioritize maternal mental health and help ensure women have the support they need to navigate the joys and challenges of pregnancy and new motherhood.    In this article published in Becker's Healthcare, Adrienne Griffen of the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance (MMHLA) and I address maternal mental health disparities – from prevention efforts to the need for better provider education to the importance of integrated care teams.    Learn more about how we can come together to support mothers’ mental health needs: https://lnkd.in/ePnAnufv  #MaternalMentalHealthMonth

Women and those who give birth should not have to experience mental health challenges alone. We must address maternal mental health struggles AND reduce the stigma on maternal mental illness. Did you know that 1 in 5 women experience a perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD), such as postpartum depression? What about how 7 in 10 women will hide their symptoms when dealing with maternal mental health issues. While mental health struggles are normal for new mothers, maternal health services must continue to work towards providing more supportive, equitable, and accessible mental health care. Everyone deserves to have a joyful and safe pregnancy while being treated with dignity and respect. Learn more about #MaternalMentalHealthMonth ➡️ https://lnkd.in/g_Rd89z Learn more about USofCare’s MCH work as we search for solutions to the maternal health crisis ➡️ https://lnkd.in/gfFb8EFT

"The mental health impact of having to leave your baby and return to work before you're ready cannot be overstated," – Maya Uppaluru Mechenbier ICYMI – A federal task force launched The National Strategy to Improve Maternal Mental Health last week – a call to Congress to recognize the key issues underlying the maternal mental health crisis and the critical solutions to address the leading cause of death in the perinatal period. Pillar #1 – Build a national infrastructure that prioritizes mental health and well-being. Key recommendations within that pillar: federal implementation of six months of paid family and medical leave AND universal child care.  (Full report in comments) Also in there – acknowledgment that lactation is “not always easy” and that the support to aid successful breastfeeding is currently lacking across the board from insurance covering lactation support to workplace accommodations for pumping.  It is so exciting to see these policy recommendations for support structures running alongside a deeply researched strategy to reverse the growing maternal mental health crisis. Big kudos to the team behind this work. I’m excited to continue fueling this forward momentum!  https://lnkd.in/gECdGApa #ChildcareIsHealthcare #CareCantWait #PaidLeaveforAll #maternalmentalhealth #maternalstressproject

In honor of World Maternal Mental Health Day (#maternalMHmatters), the AAMC is highlighting the critical need for awareness and support for mothers experiencing mental health challenges during and after pregnancy. A recent article sheds light on the startling statistic that 1 in 5 women in the United States suffers from a mental health disorder in the months before or after giving birth, yet the vast majority do not receive care. This underscores the importance of education and empowerment for patients to seek help and understand that these conditions are real and treatable. https://lnkd.in/g7XcztVy To address this urgent issue, the AAMC offers a range of resources, including research briefs, best practices, and data from the AAMC Center for Health Justice. These resources aim to provide valuable insights and strategies for improving maternal mental health outcomes. To access these resources and learn more about our efforts, visit: https://lnkd.in/gG_G6Cgf We must work together to advocate for and support mothers experiencing maternal mental health conditions. By raising awareness, providing education, and promoting access to care, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of mothers and their families. #MaternalMentalHealth #WorldMaternalMentalHealthDay #MentalHealthMonth #maternalMHmatters #academicmedicine

Continued education on the fourth trimester and perinatal mental health is a necessity when it comes to supporting moms in their new roles. So much of what occurs is still not talked about, leaving moms feeling confused, guilty, afraid, and ashamed. Providing them with the information and education ahead of time, or immediately after delivery can have a significant impact on their mental health, validating their experiences and reminding them this is a typical part of the process. Expecting moms to handle their new role, shifting hormones, and mental health challenges all while navigating the needs of their baby is unacceptable. We need to GIVE them more rather than expecting them to reach out and get the information. My course, the fourth trimester is that vessel, the one that fills the gap in service delivery from pregnancy to postpartum. One 6 week check up with OBGYN is embarrassing for maternal mental health. They need periodic check ins from a trading perinatal specialist who can assist with their mental health status all while providing support, encouragement, validation, and education. Imagine the profound difference they could have on their transition into motherhood and beyond. I’m facilitating this course LIVE via Zoom in August and am preparing the cohort now. Please share this with any pregnant or postpartum individuals that you think could benefit. With the course you get: 6 modules Perinatal workbook 3 check in calls 30 days free in my virtual community If you’re a hospital, clinic, or employer and this is something you would like to offer, let’s connect and see how we can do that. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/ePcfXkgm Registration is open here: https://lnkd.in/egefJuRC

On May 6th, the US Congress finally declared May 5th - May 11th "Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week" after tireless efforts and support by organizations like @policycentermmh. Congresswoman Kim of CA acknowledged the importance of not only awareness, but the full spectrum of maternal mental health when she stated “Untreated maternal mental health disorders impact 1 in 5 mothers and cost the United States $14.2 billion each year. The emotional toll of mental health challenges on women cannot be overstated, yet far too few women seek the help that they need during pregnancy... this bipartisan resolution... recognize[s] Maternal Mental Health Awareness week and highlight[s] the importance of maternal health care. I will keep working as co-chair of the Maternity Care Caucus to deliver results and support women, whether they are pregnant, recovering from childbirth, or facing infertility.” At Crescent and Crown we are elated that the federal government is taking initial steps in recognizing that maternal mental health disorders and maternal suicide are serious public health issues. We proudly and passionately treat individuals in need of support as they navigate the complexities of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs). If you, or someone you know, are contemplating parenthood, currently pregnant, navigating infertility, trying to conceive, coping with pregnancy/infant loss, or navigating life postpartum, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are a BIPOC woman owned practice that was specifically established to support you through the entire spectrum of your perinatal experience. #maternalmentalhealth #perinatalmentalhealth #perinatalsupport #chicagotherapist

As we prepare to celebrate International Maternal Health Day, let's briefly speak on an often overlooked aspect of women's health: maternal mental health. Maternal mental health refers to the emotional well-being of pregnant and postpartum women, encompassing a range of feelings and experiences during the perinatal period. From the joy of pregnancy to the challenges of adjusting to motherhood, it is crucial to recognize that mental health plays a central role in a woman's overall well-being. Research has shown that approximately 1 in 5 women experience perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, such as postpartum depression and anxiety. These conditions not only impact the mother but can also affect the baby's development and the family's dynamics. As an advocate for maternal health, it's imperative that mental health support and resources for pregnant and postpartum women is prioritized. This includes: - Raising awareness and reducing stigma surrounding maternal mental health issues. - Providing comprehensive screening and assessment for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders during prenatal and postpartum care. - Offering accessible and culturally sensitive mental health services, including therapy, support groups, and helplines. - Incorporating self-care strategies and stress management techniques into maternal health education and support programs. By acknowledging the importance of maternal mental health and taking proactive steps to support women during this critical time, we can positively impact the well-being of mothers, babies, and families. Let's work together to ensure that every woman receives the mental health care and support she needs to thrive throughout her journey into motherhood. #MaternalMentalHealth #MaternalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #SDG3.1 #WomenHealth #SDG3Advocate #MotherhoodJourney #SupportForMothers 🤱💕

1 in 4 Mum’s experience mental health problems as a result of pregnancy or child birth ‼️ From my experience the mental challenges of being pregnant/ giving birth can often be overlooked, dressed up as a “natural thing to do” and assumptions of coping can be made. Whilst funding & resources are stopping mothers accessing the life changing support they need for themselves and their babies, this is often something that feels out of our control. Let’s focus on what we can control.. 1. Ask if they need help or how they are coping. We can provide support systems around our pregnant & new mums, these are our friends, loved ones, colleagues, neighbours. ❤️ 2. Let’s be honest about our own dark moments in becoming a mum and supportive about the challenges and reality of motherhood, in a way that provides a guide and help. This will encourage other mums to feel safe too. 🗣️ 3. Lets stop scaring our mothers with “just wait until” followed by a stream of negative life events to come. 😳 4. Let’s not focus on her body, the changes that’s happening to it, she’s already VERY aware and may not be comfortable with those changes. Let’s move the focus onto how she is feeling. 🤰 5. Just listen, let’s stop assuming that what she experiencing is just “natural”, hear her and be there for her when she needs you. The baby is fine, she has the baby looked after, unless she says otherwise but mum needs people to look after her too. It really does take a community to raise a child and no woman should be alone ❤️ #maternalmentalhealth #mentalhealth

As professionals dedicated to advancing healthcare, we understand the critical importance of perinatal mental health. The mental well-being of parents during pregnancy and the postpartum period significantly impacts not only their lives but also the health and development of their children. 🔹 Why It Matters: - 1 in 5 women experience mental health problems during pregnancy or in the first year after birth. - Untreated perinatal mental health issues can lead to long-term consequences for both mothers and children. - Early intervention and support can drastically improve outcomes for families. Let's ensure perinatal mental health stays on the political agenda. By advocating for these changes, we can create a healthier future for mothers, children, other parents, families and communities. #PerinatalMentalHealth #MentalHealthMatters #HealthcareAdvocacy #PolicyChange #MaternalHealth