Honoring Women’s History Month: A Reflection on Maternal Mental Health
“women should be celebrated every day, but a month dedicated to female empowerment is extremely special. it doesn’t just honor the iconic women who have changed history, but encourages new generations to dream big and know that anything is possible”
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we reflect on the resilience, strength, and contributions of women throughout history. Women have played pivotal roles in shaping societies, advocating for rights, and breaking barriers in every field imaginable. Yet, one aspect of women’s history that often goes unspoken is the emotional and psychological toll of motherhood—the journey of maternal mental health and the struggles that many mothers have faced, past and present.
Women Pioneers in Maternal Mental Health
Throughout history, several women have contributed significantly to advancing maternal mental health awareness and care. Allison Livingston and Emily Slater were instrumental in advocating for maternal mental health resources, pushing for greater recognition of postpartum mood disorders in medical settings. Mamie Phipps Clark, known for her groundbreaking work in psychology, also contributed to understanding the emotional well-being of Black mothers navigating systemic barriers.
We must also acknowledge the painful legacy of Anarcha, Lucy, and Betsey—the "Mothers of Gynecology." These enslaved Black women were subjected to non-consensual medical experiments by Dr. J. Marion Sims, often without anesthesia. Their suffering laid the foundation for modern gynecological advancements, yet their contributions were long overlooked. Recognizing their sacrifices underscores the importance of ethical, equitable maternal healthcare today, especially in addressing racial disparities in maternal mental health.
A Legacy of Strength and Silence
Historically, women’s roles in family and society have been both revered and constrained. Throughout centuries, mothers were expected to embody self-sacrifice, unwavering devotion, and emotional fortitude, often at the expense of their own well-being. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, postpartum depression and anxiety were not widely acknowledged or understood. Instead, women who struggled emotionally after childbirth were often dismissed, labeled as “hysterical,” or even institutionalized rather than supported.
Even as women gained rights and more agency in their personal and professional lives, the stigma surrounding maternal mental health persisted. The expectation that motherhood should be purely joyful left many women suffering in silence, afraid to voice their struggles for fear of judgment or dismissal. The history of maternal mental health is, in many ways, a history of women fighting to be heard and validated.
Progress in Understanding Maternal Mental Health
Thankfully, we have made significant strides in understanding maternal mental health over the past several decades. Research has shed light on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), the effects of birth trauma, and the ways systemic issues—such as medical racism and socioeconomic disparities—impact maternal well-being. Organizations and advocacy groups have pushed for policy changes, better screening practices, and more accessible mental health resources for mothers.
Yet, despite this progress, many mothers today still struggle with feelings of isolation, inadequacy, and overwhelming stress. The societal pressure to “do it all” remains, and many women fear being perceived as weak or incapable if they speak openly about their mental health struggles. As a therapist specializing in maternal mental health, I see firsthand how deeply ingrained these pressures are—and how necessary it is to create spaces where mothers feel seen, heard, and supported.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
Women throughout history have fought for change, often in ways that were unseen or unrecognized. Today, advocating for maternal mental health is a continuation of that fight. Recognizing the importance of mental well-being in motherhood is not just about self-care—it’s about rewriting a narrative that has long dismissed the emotional and psychological needs of mothers.
So, as we honor the contributions of women throughout history, let us also honor the unseen labor of mothers, past and present. Let’s continue to break the silence, challenge outdated expectations, and foster a culture where maternal mental health is prioritized, supported, and understood.
To the mothers reading this: You are not alone. Your feelings are valid. And your well-being matters just as much as the care you provide for others.
If you or someone you know is struggling, know that help is available. Seeking support is a sign of strength—not weakness. Let’s continue this conversation, not just in March, but every month of the year.
Resources for Maternal Mental Health
Postpartum Support International (PSI) – www.postpartum.net
Black Mamas Matter Alliance – www.blackmamasmatter.org
Kendig, S., Keats, J. P., Hoffman, M. C., Kay, L. B., Miller, E. S., Simas, T. A., Frieder, A., & Raines, C. (2017). Consensus bundle on maternal mental health: Perinatal depression and anxiety. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 129(3), 422-430.
Sacks, T. K. (2018). Invisible Visits: Black Middle-Class Women in the American Healthcare System. Oxford University Press.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Maternal Mental Health – www.cdc.gov