Why We Need to Talk About Perinatal Mental Health—And How Therapy Can Help

Introduction

Motherhood is often portrayed as a time of joy and bonding, but for many women, the perinatal period—which includes pregnancy and the first year after birth—can also be marked by emotional struggle and mental health challenges. While the demands of caring for a newborn are enormous, what often goes unspoken is the toll this period takes on a mother’s well-being.

Recent research shows an alarming trend: maternal mental health is on the decline in the United States. From 2016 to 2023, the number of mothers reporting "fair" or "poor" mental health rose by a staggering 63.6%. In fact, only 25% of mothers now describe their mental health as “excellent.” These statistics are not just numbers—they reflect the lived experience of countless women who are navigating the hardest and most transformative period of their lives with insufficient support.

What’s Driving the Decline?

Several factors contribute to this downward shift in maternal mental health:

• Lack of paid parental leave: Many mothers return to work just weeks after giving birth, long before they are physically or emotionally ready. The absence of a supportive leave policy adds stress and disrupts maternal-infant bonding.

• Soaring childcare costs: For families already under financial strain, the cost of childcare can be overwhelming. This financial burden can amplify feelings of anxiety, guilt, and burnout.

• Societal pressure: From social media to cultural expectations, mothers often feel the weight of unrealistic standards. The pressure to "do it all" and appear effortlessly happy can isolate those who are struggling.

These systemic issues demand systemic solutions. Experts call for policy reforms like universal paid leave, affordable childcare, and greater workplace flexibility. But alongside these changes, there is an immediate need for accessible mental health support—and that’s where therapy comes in.

How Therapy Can Help

Therapy offers a critical lifeline for mothers in the perinatal period. Here’s how it can make a difference:

1. Creating a safe space
   Therapy provides a nonjudgmental space for mothers to express fears, frustrations, and feelings of inadequacy that they might not feel comfortable sharing elsewhere. Just being heard can be profoundly healing.

2. Building coping skills
   Therapists help mothers develop tools to manage anxiety, depression, and stress. These skills are not only valuable for the present but also for the ongoing journey of parenting.

3. Reframing expectations
   Therapy can challenge unrealistic standards and help mothers redefine what it means to be "a good mom" on their own terms. This shift can reduce guilt and promote self-compassion.

4. Strengthening support networks
   A therapist can help identify and strengthen a mother’s existing support system—or even guide her to additional resources like support groups or community programs.

5. Early intervention for lasting impact
   Addressing mental health early in the perinatal period doesn’t just benefit the mother; it supports the entire family. Research shows that maternal well-being is closely linked to child development and family dynamics.

Conclusion

The decline in maternal mental health is not just a personal issue—it’s a public health concern. As we advocate for systemic change, we must also normalize seeking help and remove the stigma around maternal mental health challenges. Therapy is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength, resilience, and a commitment to well-being.

If you or someone you know is struggling during pregnancy or after childbirth, know this: you are not alone, and help is available. With the right support, healing is not only possible—it’s powerful. Reach out to one of our perinatal therapists for a free consultation.