Robyn A. Porter

Today, I would like to take this time to recognize the beginning of Maternal Mental Health week, observed from April 29^th to May 5^th. This week, we turn our collective attention to the critical issue of maternal mental health, a crucial aspect of healthcare that often goes overlooked and under-addressed.
 
Maternal mental health disorders, encompassing conditions such as postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis, affect up to 1 in 5 women during pregnancy or in the first year postpartum. These conditions do not only impact the mother’s health but also have significant implications for the child’s development and the well-being of the entire family.
 
However, it is essential to note that maternal mental health crises do not impact all populations equally. Our Black mothers and birthing parents experience maternal mental health disorders at higher rates than their white counterparts and face substantial barriers in accessing necessary care. This disparity is not just a public health issue; it is a profound injustice that reflects broader systemic inequities.