Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month: Standing Together

Written By Cara Kaul

May: Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month

#maternalMHmatters #StrongerTogether

May is Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to reflect deeply on the emotional and psychological journey of motherhood. As a psychiatrist, I’ve walked alongside many mothers who, beneath the surface of sleepless nights and diaper changes, are also wrestling with intense feelings of sadness, anxiety, and even fear. This month reminds us all that maternal mental health is not a solitary battle—it’s a shared responsibility, and it’s something we must all come together to support.

Motherhood: A Beautiful and Complex Journey

Motherhood is often painted as a picture of bliss and fulfillment, and while these feelings can certainly be true, they’re not the whole story. Many mothers experience emotional highs and lows that are as real as they are challenging. Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs)—such as postpartum depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder—affect about 1 in 5 women. Despite how common these struggles are, too many mothers still feel alone in their pain.

Anna’s Story: Finding

Light in the Darkness

One mother who stands out in my memory is Anna (name changed for privacy). Anna came to see me a few weeks after giving birth to her first child. She was overwhelmed, exhausted, and felt disconnected from her baby—a feeling that brought her immense guilt. What troubled her most were the racing thoughts and persistent fear that something terrible might happen to her baby, even though she was doing everything "right."

Anna’s bravery in seeking help was a turning point. Together, through therapy and, eventually, medication, she began to regain her footing. But one of the most powerful parts of her healing wasn’t clinical—it was connecting with other mothers who shared similar experiences. Knowing she wasn’t alone lifted a huge weight from her shoulders.

Anna’s journey is a powerful reminder that healing often begins with connection—with having someone listen, understand, and say, “Me too.”

How We Can Support Mothers

Supporting mothers’ mental health is not just the job of clinicians—it’s something we can all play a part in. Here are a few ways we can show up for the mothers in our lives:

  • Listen Without Judgment: Sometimes the most healing thing we can do is simply listen. When a mother says she’s struggling, believe her. Resist the urge to offer quick fixes or reassurance that everything is fine; instead, hold space for her feelings.

  • Ask Twice: “How are you?” is a question we hear all the time, but asking it again—“Really, how are you doing?”—can open the door to honesty.

  • Offer Practical Help: Mental health challenges can feel heavier when compounded by the daily grind of newborn care. Offering to cook a meal, watch the baby for an hour, or run errands can provide much-needed relief.

  • Speak Openly: Sharing your own experiences with mental health, if you feel comfortable, can break down stigma and let mothers know they are not alone.

Recognizing the Signs

While we want to focus on support and prevention, it’s also crucial to recognize when a mother may be struggling with more than the typical stresses of new parenthood. Some signs to watch for include:

  • Persistent sadness or hopelessness

  • Extreme worry or panic attacks

  • Irritability or anger

  • Difficulty bonding with the baby

  • Intrusive, scary thoughts

  • Trouble sleeping or eating beyond what’s expected postpartum

  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

  • Thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby

It’s important to remember that postpartum psychosis, while rare, is a medical emergency. If a mother is experiencing hallucinations, delusions, or extreme confusion, immediate help is essential.

The Power of Community

One of the most heartening shifts I’ve seen over the years is the growing acknowledgment that maternal mental health is a community issue. When mothers thrive, families thrive—and when families thrive, whole communities become stronger. Whether you’re a partner, friend, neighbor, or healthcare provider, your support matters more than you may realize. Never forget the difference you make.

Mothers are often incredibly strong and resourceful, but strength doesn’t mean they should have to carry everything alone. We can all help create an environment where asking for help is seen as a sign of wisdom, not weakness.

A Personal Reflection

Every time I sit with a mother who is bravely sharing her struggles, I am reminded of the incredible resilience within her—and of the simple but profound truth that we are not meant to do this alone. Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month isn’t just about raising awareness; it’s about cultivating kindness, empathy, and a culture where mothers feel genuinely supported.

If there’s one thing I hope every mother hears this month, it’s this: You are not alone. What you’re feeling is valid. And there is hope.

Let’s stand together to ensure that no mother has to walk this path unsupported.

 

  • World Maternal Mental Health Day, May 7th: https://wmmhday.org/ #maternalMHmatters #StrongerTogether

Cara Kaul
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