Mental Health for Moms: An Essential Part of Maternal Care
May 4, 2026The birth of your baby can bring on a roller coaster of emotions—from the joy of welcoming your child into the world and the excitement for each new milestone to the fear of the unknown and feeling completely overwhelmed. For most women, these emotional highs and lows are completely normal and expected. But if the lows linger, begin to feel heavier, or turn into “dark” thoughts and emotions, it’s important not to ignore them.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to recognize the importance of emotional well-being at every stage of life. For women during pregnancy and postpartum, mental health is especially critical, yet it is often overlooked. Maternal mental health conditions are among the most common complications of childbirth and can affect individuals regardless of age, race or background.
A Common but Underrecognized Health Issue
Many women experience the “baby blues,” a condition that impacts up to 85% of mothers and usually resolves within a couple of weeks. But more serious conditions, such as postpartum depression; anxiety; obsessive-compulsive disorder; post-traumatic stress; bipolar disorder; and in rare cases, psychosis, can persist and require medical attention.
Approximately one in five women will experience a maternal or perinatal mental health condition. In the state of New York, about one in nine women reports dealing with postpartum depression symptoms following a live birth, according to data from the CDC’s Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS). Additionally, maternal mental health conditions are recognized as a leading cause of pregnancy-related complications and mortality in New York, reinforcing the need for early identification and treatment through integrated care.
Even though these conditions can be common, many individuals do not receive the help they need. National and state estimates suggest that more than half of women experiencing maternal mental health conditions go untreated. This is often due to stigma, lack of awareness or limited access to care.
Recognizing the Signs
Maternal mental health conditions can present in many ways. Some individuals may feel persistently sad, anxious or overwhelmed. Others may experience difficulty bonding with their baby, changes in sleep or appetite, or intrusive or distressing thoughts.
In more severe cases, signs that require immediate medical attention can include confusion and paranoia, as well as feeling out of touch with reality.
These symptoms are not personal failings or character flaws. They are treatable medical conditions, and early recognition can significantly improve outcomes for both mother and baby.
The Importance of Integrated Care
Comprehensive maternal care includes both physical and mental health support. At Garnet Health, maternity services are designed to support patients throughout pregnancy, delivery and postpartum recovery with a focus on whole-person care.
This includes access to:
- Obstetric and prenatal care
- Labor and delivery services
- Postpartum follow-up and recovery support
- Education for new and expecting parents
- Coordination with behavioral health resources when needed
Integrating mental health screening into routine maternity care helps providers identify concerns early, connecting patients with appropriate support and ensuring that emotional well-being is treated with the same importance as physical health.
Breaking the Silence
One of the greatest barriers to care is stigma. Many mothers feel pressure to appear happy or in control, even when they are struggling. This can lead to feelings of isolation and prevent them from seeking help.
Open conversations about maternal mental health are essential. When communities, healthcare providers and families normalize these experiences, it becomes easier for mothers to speak up and access care.
- Support can come in many forms, including:
- Talking with a healthcare provider
- Connecting with support groups
- Reaching out to trusted family or friends
- Accessing professional counseling or therapy
National resources such as the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-TLC-MAMA) and Postpartum Support International (1-800-944-4773) also provide confidential support.
Moving Forward Together
Maternal mental health is a critical part of overall health for both mother and child. Early recognition and intervention are crucial because, when left untreated, these conditions can impact bonding, child development and long-term family well-being.
This Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s important to recognize that no one should have to navigate these challenges alone. If something feels off—whether during pregnancy or after childbirth—seeking help is a vital and courageous step.
By prioritizing maternal mental health, we can build healthier families, stronger communities and a more supportive future for every parent.
If you are beginning your birthing journey, contact Garnet Health Medical Center: (845) 333-1000; Garnet Health Medical Center – Catskills, Harris: (845) 794-3300; or Garnet Health Doctors: (845) 333-7575. You can also visit garnethealth.org/services/maternity-care.
