Black Maternal Mental Health Week: Supporting Black Mothers’ Mental Health

Did you know that 40 percent of Black women experience maternal mental health symptoms? That’s nearly twice the rate of all women. And this a matter of life and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mental health conditions — such as depression, anxiety, death by suicide, and substance use disorders — are the leading cause of maternal mortality.

That’s why Black Maternal Mental Health Week, observed each year from July 19-25, seeks to raise awareness of the maternal mental health issues affecting Black women during pregnancy, childbirth, and after.

What is the Black Maternal Mental Health Week Shades of Blue?

Black Maternal Mental Health Week is the brainchild of Kay Matthews. In 2013, Matthews founded the Shades of Blue Project shortly after the stillborn death of her daughter Troya Simone. Shades of Blue is a Houston-based non-profit organization dedicated to improving maternal mental health outcomes for Black and Brown people. Matthews latter launched Black Maternal Mental Health Week (BMMHW)—a week-long event that focuses on the challenges that Black birthing people face, explores viable solutions, and highlights the importance of community support and compassion training. The event is held annually from July 19 through July 25 and is recognized not just in Houston, but across the country.

The Shades of Blue Project and Black Maternal Mental Health Week aim to shed light on the spectrum of mental health issues that Black mothers experience, from postpartum depression to anxiety and stress related to systemic racism and healthcare disparities.

Furthermore, these initiatives promote empathy and actionable support to improve mental health outcomes for Black mothers.

What are the facts about Black Maternal Mental Health?

Understanding the facts about Black maternal mental health is crucial for addressing and improving the mental well-being of Black mothers. Being aware of these key points can help you take better care of own mental health, too. Here’s what you need to know:  

1. Higher Rates of Postpartum Depression: Black mothers experience higher rates of postpartum depression compared to their white counterparts. Socioeconomic factors, lack of access to quality healthcare, and systemic racism can all contribute to this disparity.

2. Underdiagnosis and Undertreatment: Black mothers are often underdiagnosed and undertreated for mental health conditions. Cultural stigma, lack of culturally competent healthcare providers, and mistrust in the medical system are significant barriers. If you are struggling with depression or anxiety don’t be ashamed to get the help that you need. Getting help is not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of wisdom. And if your doctor isn’t taking your concerns seriously, find one who will.

3. Impact of Racism and Discrimination: Don’t underestimate the impact that the chronic stress of racism and discrimination can have on your mental health. This stress can lead to conditions like anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

4. Need for Culturally Competent Care: There is a pressing need for culturally competent mental health care that understands and respects the unique experiences of Black mothers. This includes having more Black mental health professionals and providing training for all healthcare providers on cultural competence. Do online research or query your friend group to find the right mental health professional for you.

5. Support Systems and Resources: Community support systems and resources tailored to Black mothers can significantly improve mental health outcomes. This includes support groups, accessible mental health services, and educational resources on maternal mental health.

Supporting Black Maternal Mental Health

To support Black maternal mental health, it is essential to focus on awareness, access, and advocacy. Here are some steps that can be taken:

1. Increase Awareness: Educate communities about the importance of Black maternal mental health and the challenges Black mothers face. This can be done through campaigns, workshops, and community events.
2. Improve Access to Care: Ensure Black mothers have access to quality mental health care. This includes increasing the number of Black mental health professionals and providing affordable and accessible services.
3. Advocate for Policy Changes: Advocate for policies that address the social determinants of health affecting Black mothers. This includes policies that improve access to healthcare, reduce healthcare disparities, and address systemic racism.
4. Build Support Networks: Create and strengthen support networks for Black mothers. This includes community support groups, online forums, and peer support programs.
5. Provide Resources and Education: Offer resources and education on maternal mental health tailored to Black mothers. This can include informational materials, workshops, and training for healthcare providers.

How to Help Others and Yourself

Tackling the issues related to Black maternal mental health may seem like an insurmountable task, but we all can do our part.

First, you need to educate yourself about the importance of Black maternal mental health and the challenges Black mothers face. Next, share this knowledge with your friend group and your community. Then, connect with organizations that push for policies to help Black mothers, work to improve access to healthcare, or provide cultural competency training for healthcare professionals.

 And if you think you’re struggling with a mental health condition, get the help you need.

Conclusion

Black Maternal Mental Health Week is a crucial time to raise awareness and support the mental health of Black mothers. When communities understand the unique challenges Black mothers face, they can take actionable steps to address these issues. These efforts can improve mental health outcomes and ensure that you and all Black mothers receive the care and support you deserve.

What initiatives would you like to see in your community to better support the mental health of Black mothers?