World Maternal Mental Health Day

World Maternal Mental Health Day draws attention to essential mental health concerns for mothers and families. Many different organizations around the world are coming together to increase awareness of and decrease the stigma surrounding perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.

Why we need MMH day

Life changes around pregnancy make women more vulnerable to mental illness. For instance the negative cycle of poverty and mental illness can impact on a woman’s ability to function and thrive. Mental health care provides the necessary support to empower women to identify resources and personal capabilities. This can enhance their resilience to difficult life circumstances and support them to nurture their children optimally.

Helping mothers, helping babies!

In many countries, as many as 1 in 5 new mothers experience some type of perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMADs). These illnesses frequently go unnoticed and untreated, often with long-term consequences to both mother and child.

Raising awareness – Together!

Since 2016 WMMHday is commemorated on the first Wednesday of May every year - which falls on May 5 in 2021. Together with organizations from around the world we are united in a worldwide effort to raise awareness about maternal mental health through a collective social media drive and in-country events.