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Maternal mental health conditions occur in parents of every age, race, culture, and income level.

They can appear during pregnancy and the first 12 months after childbirth. The term “postpartum depression” is commonly used to describe maternal mental health conditions. However, there is a spectrum of conditions that are referred to as perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. They include pregnancy and postpartum depression, pregnancy and postpartum anxiety, pregnancy and postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder, postpartum post traumatic stress disorder, and postpartum psychosis.

Resources are available for parents, loved ones, and providers. There is support available, Know the Signs. Call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-9-HELP4MOMS.

  • Are you feeling sad or depressed?
  • Do you feel more irritable or angry with those around you?
  • Are you having difficulty bonding with your baby?
  • Do you feel anxious or panicky?
  • Are you having problems with eating or sleeping?
  • Are you having upsetting thoughts that you can’t get out of your mind?
  • Do you feel as if you are “out of control” or “going crazy”?
  • Do you feel like you never should have become a parent?
  • Are you worried that you might hurt your baby or yourself?

Resources

National mental health hotlines

The Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance offers a helpful fact sheet about the two new mental health hotlines and a warmline:

Arizona organizations and resources

  • Women’s Health Innovations of Arizona
    A local organization providing high-quality maternal mental healthcare. They have support, resources, groups and promote education about the prevalence of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs).
  • Arizona Chapter: Postpartum Support International (PSI)
    Arizona information, education, and support for parents, support systems, and professionals.
  • 4th Trimester Arizona
    Information, education, resources, support groups and other events to connect parents and professionals. There are monthly “Village Gatherings” that are available online and in person to find support from other parents. 
  • Arizona HEAR HER Campaign
    A joint effort with the CDC’s national campaign to provide information about urgent maternal warning signs, including maternal mental health.

National organizations and resources

This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.