Advocates call for designation of Black maternal mental health week

Abstract

Black moms are at higher risk for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders than white moms, but are less likely to receive mental health treatment, according to the Shades of Blue Project, a Houston‐based nonprofit focused on improving maternal mental health outcomes for people of color. Black Maternal Mental Health Week was held July 19 through July 25. The weeklong event, hosted by the Shades of Blue project and supported by MomsRising, included an in‐person training session, a two‐day summit, a community awards brunch, and a walk and family fun day. It ended with a state of Black maternal mental health roundtable discussion. Moms, caregivers, organizational leaders and advocates support H.Res.1226, sponsored by Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D‐Del.). This congressional resolution designates July 19 through July 25, 2022, as Black Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week. Among its provisions, the resolution is designed to raise public awareness and understanding around maternal mental health conditions and their disproportionate impact on Black birthing people and families. It also recognizes the need for culturally congruent treatment for maternal mental health conditions. “Our country urgently needs programs and policies that will improve Black moms’ mental health and address these shameful disparities,” stated Tina Sherman, senior campaign director for the maternal justice campaign at MomsRising.