May is National Maternal Depression Month. Maternal Depression is most commonly known as Post Partem Depression (PPD). PPD is a specifier for Depressive Disorders (DSM, 2017). Hopelessness, low self-esteem, trouble sleeping, lack of motivation or interest, changes in movement, changes in appetite, and thoughts about being better off dead or hurting oneself are the main symptoms (DSM, 2017). PPD can be diagnosed perinatal (or during pregnancy) or post pardem (after pregnancy). It is important to differentiate between what is commonly known as “baby blues” and PPD. Baby blues is transient nonpathological state of emotional liability that requires no treatment (Kleiman, 2009). PPD is diagnosed when symptoms persist and interfere with daily functioning.

It is important to understand that women dealing with these symptoms are struggling with many different aspects in their life. Common issues are separating symptoms from the person and the desire for explanations (Kleiman, 2009). Women want answers and support. However, it can be hard to reach out for support given the challenge of new roles. Pregnancy, birth, and PP are significant events in a woman’s life that bring many changes not to mention the hormonal and physical changes that accompany (Johnson, 2019). In other cultures, around the world, it is commonly accepted and practiced for new mothers to receive help from their families and the community following the birth of their child and up to the next several months (Johnson, 2019.) This practice signifies the importance of support and self-care that new mothers require.

Here are some facts about Maternal Depression:

• Currently, about 15-20% of women deal with forms of PPD that are specific to symptoms of anxiety and depression (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, 2022)
• 1 in 7 women experience depression or anxiety in during pregnancy or post-partum (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, 2022)
• Perinal Depression is the most common complication following childbearing (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, 2022)
• Common risk factors include: financial stress, marital stress, family history of depression, a major recent life event, pregnancy of multiples, and many others (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, 2022)

Are you wondering how you can be an advocate for Maternal Depression?

• Familiarize yourself with the warning signs and know the difference between the “baby blues” and PPD
• Offer support and encouragement to new moms
• Join the movement through Post-Partum Support International
• If you are someone you know is in crisis reach out to the following helpline for assistance: 1-800-944-4773

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day

May 7th is Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day. This is an important day because it helps to advocate for children’s mental health as being essential to a child’s healthy development (Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day, 2022). The areas that are found to have the most impact is surrounding issues of suicide with children and in the school system (Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day, 2022). Awareness of bullying and its effect on children as well as the support provided to children in schools is essential.

Since the beginning of National Children’s Mental health awareness day in 2005, SAMHSA (  ) has advocated for efficiency of community based mental health and substance use services, provided context to how these programs support youth development, and how these youth can flourish in their communities (National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day, 2022).

You can support this cause by:

• Supporting local government
• Supporting local community services
• Increase your awareness of mental health symptoms
• Erase the stigma of mental health assistance
• Volunteer for a local agency