Maternal Mental Health Month: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Maternal Mental Health Month (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Maternal Mental Health Month is observed on May 1st.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Maternal Mental Health Month, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as captivating facts you might want to know about Maternal Mental Health Month.

📅 What day is Maternal Mental Health Month 2024?

In 2024, Maternal Mental Health Month is on Monday, May 1st. It is the 1st Monday in May; in 2024, it is Wednesday. There are until the next observance. You also can explore all the exciting details and facts about May 1, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Maternal Mental Health Month is celebrated annually in May to focus on and create awareness about the mental health of mothers during and after pregnancy. It is common for new mothers to experience the “baby blues” during pregnancy, which can manifest as feelings of irritability, exhaustion, and worry. Additionally, studies indicate that approximately 20% of new mothers suffer from postpartum depression, which includes symptoms such as anger, guilt, and a lack of interest in the baby. It is crucial for women to know that seeking medical help is acceptable and should not be accompanied by fear of judgment. This month aims to eliminate the shame associated with these conditions and offer support to women who are affected by them.

📜 Maternal Mental Health Month History

During the 14th century, Margery Kempe gained fame after displaying signs of insanity following a difficult childbirth. Unfortunately, her community labeled her as a “madwoman” without understanding the scientific realities behind her condition. It was later determined that she actually suffered from postnatal psychosis, a distinct illness from postpartum depression, marking a significant distinction in medical understanding at that time.

In the 16th century, physician Castello Branco documented a case of postpartum depression, describing a physically healthy woman who experienced intense sadness after giving birth. This eventually escalated into a period of madness that lasted a month. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that a new perspective and approach towards this illness emerged. Charlotte Perkins Gilman’s novella “The Yellow Wallpaper” was published, shedding light on the melancholy and hysterical tendencies experienced by an unnamed woman after childbirth. Gilman wrote this in response to society’s discrimination against women facing mental health issues during and after giving birth, drawing from her own personal experience.

In the 21st century, awareness of the scientific basis of postpartum disorders has significantly increased. Doctors, healthcare professionals, and women worldwide are working together to destigmatize and normalize this condition. In May 2014, the first-ever Maternal Mental Health Month was established, further emphasizing the importance of addressing and supporting women’s mental health during and after pregnancy.

✅ Maternal Mental Health Month Facts

🔖 Maternal mental illnesses are common
Approximately 10% to 20% of women who are pregnant will experience postpartum illnesses.

🔖 The first six weeks are crucial
Postpartum depression is a type of depression that can happen within the first six weeks following childbirth.

🔖 The causes of postpartum illnesses
Various factors, such as one’s lifestyle, physical and mental well-being, and genetic makeup, can contribute to postpartum illness.

👍 Why Is Maternal Mental Health Month Important

Being a mother is challenging, and being a new mother is much more difficult. During Maternal Mental Health Month, everyone can show their support and love to mothers who are suffering from maternal mental illnesses.

When it comes to maternal mental health, mothers frequently dread being judged. This month-long commemoration is committed to eradicating the stigma. It’s the time of year to demonstrate that maternal mental problems are widespread and treatable.

Charities and non-profit organizations raise funds not only for research but also for those in need of financial assistance for mental health care. Unfortunately, not every mother has the financial means to seek expert assistance. These organizations are there to help them.

🙂 How To Observe Maternal Mental Health Month

⚡ Donate to charity

⚡ Get certified as a mental health aid
To support mothers experiencing maternal mental health issues, the most effective way is to offer your assistance. One option is to become a mental health first aider through the Mental Health First Aid (M.H.F.A.) website. This certification can be obtained with just three days of professional training.

⚡ Attend seminars and virtual discussion
There are several nonprofit organizations committed to raising awareness about maternal mental health. These non-profit organizations are committed to assisting women who are suffering from maternal mental health issues. To name a few, you can contact the National Alliance for Mental Health, The Jed Foundation, and the American Psychiatric Association Foundation (A.P.A.F.).

📅 When is Maternal Mental Health Month?

Discover all 🔗 May holidays, including 🔗 Health and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about Maternal Mental Health Month. So be sure to check back soon.