About Maternal Mental Health
We are committed to supporting mothers through education, resources, and community support.
By understanding maternal mental health and the various PMADs, we can work together to create a nurturing environment for mothers and their families. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. You are not alone.
PMAD Signs and Symptoms
PMADs manifest in various ways, and symptoms can overlap. Postpartum depression (PPD), a common PMAD, may present with persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and difficulty concentrating . Anxiety disorders during the perinatal period can include excessive worry, restlessness, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath.. It's important to note that these are just some examples, and the presentation of PMADs can vary significantly between individuals.
.png)
According to recent studies, approximately 1 in 5 women experience significant mood and anxiety disorders during pregnancy or in the first year postpartum.
Maternal mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being for mothers during pregnancy and the postpartum period. It encompasses a range of emotional and psychological challenges that can affect mothers, impacting their ability to care for themselves and their families. At CherishedMom.org, we are dedicated to raising awareness and providing support for maternal mental health, ensuring that every mother receives the care and understanding she deserves. Maternal mental health disorders are more common than many realize. Despite their prevalence, these conditions often go undiagnosed and untreated, leading to long-term consequences for both mothers and their children. By increasing awareness and understanding, we aim to reduce stigma and encourage mothers to seek help.
Maternal Substance Abuse
Maternal substance abuse during pregnancy and the postpartum period poses significant risks to both the mother and the child. The use of illicit drugs or excessive alcohol consumption can lead to various complications, including fetal malformations, premature birth, low birth weight, and neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) (Bailey & Diaz-Barbosa, 2018, pp. 550–559; Filho et al., 2019, p. 63; Mendez-Reyes et al., 2024). The impact of substance abuse extends beyond the neonatal period, potentially affecting the child's neurodevelopment, behavior, and cognitive abilities (Bailey & Diaz-Barbosa, 2018, pp. 550–559; Manzano et al., 2016, pp. 1–5). There's evidence suggesting an increase in maternal fentanyl use during the COVID-19 pandemic, correlating with higher rates of preterm births and lower birth weights (Lien et al., 2023, pp. 664–669). Integrated treatment programs that address mental health, parenting skills, and substance abuse are crucial for improving outcomes for both mothers and their children (Augustyn et al., 2021, pp. 2106–2114).
Signs and Symptoms
Identifying maternal substance abuse can be challenging, as many women may not disclose their use due to fear of judgment or repercussions (Wendell, 2013, pp. 91–96). However, certain signs and symptoms may indicate substance use. These can include changes in behavior, such as increased irritability, mood swings, or social withdrawal. Physical signs might include needle marks, unusual sleep patterns, or unexplained weight loss. The presence of certain substances in the mother's system can be detected through urine or blood tests. It's important to remember that substance abuse is a complex issue, and a comprehensive assessment is necessary to determine the extent and nature of the problem. The specific effects on the fetus and newborn vary depending on the substance, dosage, and timing of exposure (Bailey & Diaz-Barbosa, 2018, pp. 550–559).