The Importance of Honoring the Stories of Women Lost to Maternal Suicide: A Call to Change Maternal Mortality Stats in the United States
Every year, far too many women lose their lives to maternal suicide in the United States. When there is a suicide it can be all to easy to forget that these people had hopes, dreams alongside their struggles. With pregnant and new moms, those hopes and dreams often centered on the joys and activities of loving and raising their children – until unexpected maternal mental health issues robbed them of that. Their stories deserve to be heard and remembered as we strive to change the maternal mortality stats in our country.
Remembering Women Lost to Maternal Suicide:
So how do we learn the stories of those who have lost their lives when they are no longer alive to share them? There are two primary ways: by listening to the stories of family and friends and by listening to the stories of women who almost lost their lives. For example, we know from survivors of OCD who have intrusive thoughts about harming their child may choose instead to unalive themselves to protect their baby (even though in reality, OCD does not cause women to harm their children), and we know from women who’ve had perinatal psychosis that even after recovery from the illness, there can be a risk due to social conditions they face. It isn’t always due to stress and overwhelm, and it does not always look like depression.
The Reality of Maternal Suicide in the United States:
Maternal suicide is a harsh reality that highlights the urgent need for change in our healthcare system and societal support structures. The maternal mortality rate in the United States is alarmingly high compared to other developed countries, with a significant portion of these deaths attributed to suicide. It is a stark reminder of the gaps in maternal mental health care and the need for a more comprehensive approach to maternal health.
How We Can Make a Difference:
- Raise Awareness: By sharing the stories of women lost to maternal suicide and the stories of those who nearly did, we can raise awareness about the importance of maternal mental health and suicide prevention.
- Educate Families: Because family members are the most likely to see the signs or concerns, we should ensure targeted information that includes how to spot OCD and psychosis and how to interact to enable them to receive appropriate care.
- Destigmatize Mental Health: We must work to break down the stigma surrounding mental health issues, particularly in the context of motherhood. Creating a safe space for women to seek help without judgment is crucial.
- Improve Access to Care: Ensuring that all women have access to affordable and quality mental health services is essential for preventing maternal suicide. This includes routine mental health screenings during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
- Support Systems: Building support systems for mothers, whether through healthcare providers, community organizations, or peer groups, can provide a vital lifeline for women facing mental health challenges.
- Advocate for Change: Advocacy efforts at the local, state, and national levels are instrumental in driving policy changes and allocating resources to address maternal mental health disparities and prevent maternal suicide.
The stories of women lost to maternal suicide serve as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for action to change maternal mortality stats in the United States. By honoring these women, raising awareness, destigmatizing mental health, improving access to care, building support systems, and advocating for change, we can create a brighter and safer future for all mothers. Let us come together to remember those we have lost, to support those who are struggling, and to work towards a world where maternal suicide is a preventable tragedy of the past. Please join us for our Butterfly Release Memorial Friday, September 20th at 4pm as we honor and remember moms lost too soon to suicide by releasing beautiful butterflies into the sky. This virtual gathering will bring comfort and peace as we celebrate the lives of those we have lost. Take part in this special event from the comfort of your own home and feel the love and support of our community. Let the butterflies symbolize the freedom and beauty of our cherished memories.
