Understanding and Supporting Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week
When is Maternal Mental Health Week 2024 and How to Participate
History of Maternal Mental Health Awareness
Maternal Mental Health Stats
The statistics surrounding maternal mental health are both startling and sobering. Research shows:
- One in five women experience a maternal mental health issue during pregnancy or in the year following birth.
- Perinatal mental health conditions are the #1 complication of childbearing
- Only 25% of those impacted are identified and receive treatment
- One in ten fathers experience depression or anxiety after the birth of a child
- Up to 85% of individuals experience the “baby blues” after giving birth, tied to hormonal changes
- Up to 100% of individuals (and their partners) have intrusive thoughts surrounding childbirth and the postpartum period
These numbers underscore the importance of this week and its role in highlighting the need for dialogue and action.
Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week Themes
Each day of Maternal Mental Health Week is dedicated to different aspects of the maternal mental health experience. Themes are often structured around the experiences and emotional needs of the mother during pregnancy and postpartum, with an emphasis on support and resources. This year’s theme, sponsored by The BlueDot Project, is storytelling. Share your story so others feels less alone and to provide a sense of hope. Download our social media templates to help spread awareness.
Share Your Story (May 5, 2024)
Raise Your Hand If You're 1 in 5 (May 6th)
Wear Blue (May 7th)
Find a Moment to Celebrate You (May 8th)
Tag 5 Moms That Could Use a Little Love (May 9th)
Reach out and show some love to moms who might be feeling overwhelmed or underappreciated. A simple message of encouragement can brighten their day and remind them of their worth and importance. Be sure to follow along on our social media (@thematrescence) for messages of encouragement to share.
What do you wish someone told you postpartum? (May 10th)
Continue Spreading Awareness (May 11th)
World Maternal Mental Health Day Activities
May 1, 2024 (the first Wednesday in May) is World Maternal Mental Health Awareness Day! Various activities are organized during MMHW to engage and support mothers, from support groups (through Postpartum Support International) and workshops to social media campaigns and fundraising events. A significant emphasis is placed on creating safe spaces for mothers to share their experiences and to find comfort in solidarity.
Engaging in these activities not only contributes to the emotional well-being of individual mothers but also fosters a culture of support within local communities and beyond. Additionally, organizational partnerships during MMHW can significantly broaden the reach and impact of the activities, providing multifaceted support to mothers in need. Looking to get involved? Send us an email or fill out the contact form in the footer of this webpage.
How to Get Involved Online
For those who can’t participate in local events, there are several online opportunities to get involved. Social media plays a crucial role in amplifying the voices of mothers and their supporters. Hashtags, shareable templates, and storytelling are just a few ways you can use your online presence to uplift the conversation around maternal mental health.
Online platforms also serve as a hub for resources, including helplines, webinars, and educational content that can benefit mothers globally. Joining online communities dedicated to maternal health provides a continuous source of support, not just during MMHW, but year-round.