Expert Insights: Maternal Mental Health and Black Women’s Issues
Shaenor Ishmael, Ph.D, a psychotherapist and expert in maternal mental health, is dedicated to helping new mothers navigate the challenges of anxiety, depression, and other perinatal mental health conditions. In a recent interview with rolling out, Ishmael shed light on the importance of addressing maternal mental health issues, particularly those affecting Black women.
Maternal mental health encompasses the emotional, social, and mental well-being of women during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Ishmael emphasized the need for mental health professionals to be involved during pregnancy to monitor for potential mental health disorders that may arise. She highlighted the prevalence of perinatal depression, anxiety, and OCD, which can manifest during pregnancy and postpartum, not just after childbirth.
One of the key issues affecting Black women’s maternal health is the feeling of being unheard and their concerns not being adequately addressed. According to a CDC survey, 30% of Black women feel unheard in their maternal journey. Maternal mental health complications are the leading cause of maternal mortality, with 52% of mortality rates occurring within the first year postpartum. Ishmael stressed the importance of providers listening to Black women’s concerns and engaging with them effectively.
Another concerning issue is the fear Black women have of intervention from Child Protective Services when reporting postpartum struggles. Many Black women may lie on postpartum depression screenings out of this fear, highlighting the need for cultural humility in healthcare providers. Ishmael emphasized the importance of providers empathizing with Black women’s experiences and actively listening to their needs.
In conclusion, Shaenor Ishmael’s expertise in maternal mental health brings attention to the critical issues facing Black women in this area. By advocating for better support and understanding, Ishmael is working towards improving the mental health outcomes for new mothers in marginalized communities.
