Why We Need to Reduce the Stigma Around Maternal Mental Health
Becoming a mum is one of the most significant life changes anyone can go through. It’s filled with the highest highs - those heart-melting smiles, first giggles, and the indescribable joy of holding your baby close. But let’s be honest, it’s also accompanied by moments of doubt, exhaustion, and sometimes overwhelming emotions. It’s no secret that the reality of motherhood doesn’t always match the romanticised image we often see online or in the media. Yet, despite the challenges, the pressure to appear like we’ve got it all together can feel immense.
So why is it, then, that we still don’t talk enough about maternal mental health?
The truth is, maternal mental health challenges are far more common than many of us realise. According to statistics, as many as 1 in 5 women will experience some form of mental health issue during pregnancy or in the first year postpartum. Yet, despite this, stigma continues to shroud maternal mental health, making it hard for mothers to openly share their struggles and seek the support they desperately need.
“Shame dies when stories are told in safe spaces.”
The Weight of Expectations
In today’s world, mums are often expected to “do it all.” We’re meant to be nurturing, patient, organised, and somehow manage to look like we’ve stepped off the cover of a glossy magazine while we’re at it. We’re expected to love every second of motherhood, and if we don’t? Well, that’s something we often keep to ourselves out of fear of judgment.
But the reality is, no one can be the “perfect mum.” This ideal is a trap that leads so many women to feel inadequate or guilty when their experience doesn’t align with societal expectations. And when we feel like we’re falling short, it’s hard to admit that we’re struggling. We’ve been conditioned to believe that asking for help is a sign of failure, when in fact, it’s the most courageous thing we can do.
The Impact of Stigma
The stigma surrounding maternal mental health has real consequences. Many mums delay seeking help, or don’t seek it at all, out of fear of being judged or misunderstood. They worry that others will see them as “bad mums” or question their ability to care for their child. This stigma can be particularly strong for mothers who experience conditions like postnatal depression, anxiety, or even postpartum psychosis. Instead of receiving the support and care they need, they may suffer in silence, their struggles hidden behind a brave face.
This silence can be incredibly isolating. It’s hard enough to navigate the challenges of motherhood without feeling like you’re the only one going through it. The more we stigmatise maternal mental health, the more we isolate mums at a time when they need connection and support the most.
Breaking the Silence
We need to break the silence around maternal mental health because every mum deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported. No one should feel ashamed for struggling. Whether it’s the “baby blues” or something more complex, these feelings are valid, and they don’t make anyone a bad mother.
Reducing stigma starts with open conversations. When we talk about maternal mental health openly, we give others permission to do the same. We need to normalise the fact that it’s okay not to be okay sometimes, and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By raising awareness and sharing our stories, we create a supportive community where mums can feel safe to speak up and seek the help they need without fear of judgment.
Building a Supportive Community
Mums need more than just awareness; they need access to compassionate, non-judgmental support. Whether that’s through professional mental health services, peer support groups, or simply the listening ear of a friend, it’s important to let mothers know they’re not alone.
As a therapist specialising in postpartum mental health, I see first hand how transformational it can be for mums to receive the support they need. It helps them not only cope with the challenges they’re facing but also grow in self-compassion and confidence as they navigate motherhood.
How You Can Help
We all have a role to play in reducing the stigma around maternal mental health. Whether you’re a mum, a partner, a friend, or simply someone who cares, here are a few ways you can make a difference:
Listen without judgment: Sometimes, the most important thing you can do is simply listen. Let the mums in your life know that they don’t have to hide how they’re feeling, and that you’re there to support them, no matter what.
Share your story: If you’ve struggled with maternal mental health, consider sharing your experiences with others. You never know who might need to hear that they’re not alone.
Encourage seeking help: If you notice a mum who seems to be struggling, gently encourage her to seek professional support. Remind her that it’s okay to ask for help.
Advocate for change: Whether it’s pushing for better access to maternal mental health services or simply speaking up about the importance of mental health, your voice can make a difference.
Reducing the stigma around maternal mental health is vital for the wellbeing of mums and their families. It’s time to put an end to the silence and the shame and create a culture where all mothers feel safe to reach out for support. Because, at the end of the day, no one should have to go through this alone. We’re all in this together, and it’s okay to ask for help.
Let’s keep talking, keep listening, and keep supporting each other through the beautiful, messy, and sometimes challenging journey of motherhood.