Maternal mental health is a significant concern for new and expecting mothers. In the United States, approximately 800,000 new mothers each year are impacted by a maternal mental health disorder such as postpartum depression , anxiety, or related conditions. While 1 in 7 new mothers is affected by postpartum mental health conditions, up to 50 percent go undiagnosed.
Furthermore, a study recently analyzed nearly 200,000 female parents and found a large decline in self-reported mental health from 2016 to 2023, affecting all socioeconomic subsets; mothers who are single, have lower educational attainment, or whose children have only public insurance often have the lowest mental and physical health scores.
Untreated maternal mental health disorders can negatively impact mothers, their children, families, and society as a whole, contributing to high rates of suicide and overdose among postpartum mothers.
How the COVID-19 Pandemic Affected Maternal Mental Health
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a dramatic increase in the frequency and severity of mental health disorders among pregnant and postpartum women. Factors such as social isolation, financial stress, and limited access to support caused rates of maternal mental health disorders to triple. According to a study published in 2022, one in three new mothers during the early part of the pandemic screened positive for postpartum depression, nearly three times pre-pandemic levels. While anxiety is a common experience for pregnant and postpartum women, COVID-19 fears and limited family support further amplified symptoms and barriers to care.
LifeStance is a national leader in mental, behavioral, and emotional wellness with multiple locations in 33 states. Services vary by location.
Find a provider near you:
Signs and Symptoms of Postpartum Mental Health Conditions
Recognizing the signs of postpartum depression and related maternal mental health conditions is vital for early intervention. Common symptoms and indicators may include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
- Excessive worry, anxiety, or panic attacks
- Severe mood swings or irritability
- Difficulty bonding with the baby
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns (sleeping too much or too little)
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Withdrawing from family and friends
- Thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby
- Trouble making decisions or concentrating
Certain risk factors (such as prior history of mental health conditions, inadequate support, financial hardship, and significant life stressors) can further increase vulnerability to developing postpartum mental health disorders.
Treatment Options for Maternal Mental Health Conditions
Effective support and treatment options are available for postpartum depression and related conditions. Treatment may include lifestyle modifications, therapy, medications, and social or community support. In addition to maintaining healthy habits, such as avoiding alcohol and prioritizing rest, a health care provider may recommend one or more of the following options:
Zurzuvae® (zuranolone) is a relatively new oral medication for postpartum depression treatment . It offers a unique mechanism that may provide faster relief with a brief, two-week dosing schedule. Always consult with a licensed medical professional to discuss the best treatment options for your needs.
The Importance of Community for Maternal Mental Health
Strong community support can also make a significant difference for new moms managing postpartum depression or anxiety. While stigma about mental illness is decreasing, it can still be difficult for mothers to ask for help due to feelings of guilt or the expectation to be caretakers themselves. Moms who seek support often report relief and are sometimes inspired to help others in similar situations.
For new mothers with mild symptoms, online support groups, help hotlines, and teletherapy are increasingly accessible. Online therapy appointments, for example, offer convenient access for parents with newborns who may find it challenging to leave home. Learn more about online therapy options at LifeStance.
If you are interested in exploring treatment options or need professional support, find a provider to discuss what’s right for you and your family.
Share
