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Maternal Mental Health
Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs)
Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) are a group of illnesses that affect approximately one in five women during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
PMADs include:
- perinatal depression
- perinatal anxiety
- perinatal obsessive compulsive disorder
- perinatal post-traumatic stress disorder
- postpartum psychosis
It is understood that the perinatal period begins three months prior to childbirth and may continue to at least one year post birth.
According to the National Institute of Health, maternal mental health disorders are the number one complication associated with pregnancy and the process of childbirth. According to the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance, Black women are twice as likely as white women to experience a PMAD, but half as likely to receive treatment.
Maternal Mental Health Resources
ACS is raising awareness about PMADs, signs and symptoms, its prevalence, and the ways in which pregnant and birthing people throughout the perinatal and post-partum periods can be supported and connected to services.
Pregnant, Postpartum and Parenting People who feel they need mental health support can call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline which provides 24/7, free, confidential support before, during, and after pregnancy at 833-TLC-MAMA (833-852-6262) or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.
For a list of resources, please see below:
- Facts on PMADs
- PMADs Services Covered by Medicaid
- NYC DOHMH Dear Colleague Letter
- Doula Services- A doula is a professional who offers non-medical support to pregnant individuals and their families before, during, and after childbirth. Their services address the physical, emotional, and practical challenges of childbirth, helping to prevent and reduce the risks associated with PMADs.
Videos About PMADs
The Hidden Pain of Perinatal Mood Anxiety Disorders (PMADs)
Trailer: Fathers and Mental Health - Unspoken Conversations - ACS talks to fathers about their journeys to fatherhood, bringing awareness and attention in our Perinatal Mood Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) training series to the mental health of fathers. These unspoken conversations often interfere with a father's ability to care for the child and family; but with supportive resources fathers can get the help they need, build confidence, and become "life preservers" to their families.
Supportive Programs for Dads - Unspoken Conversations
Supporting the Mental Health and Well Being of Fathers - Unspoken Conversations
Raising Awareness: Fathers and Paternal Mental Health - Unspoken Conversations
Jonathan's Fatherhood Journey - Unspoken Conversations