1 in 5 women suffers from perinatal depression or anxiety. Black, Hispanic, Native American, and other non-white women suffer disproportionately to white women. Most conferences speak to and about white women. Shades of You, Shades of Me’s summit and conference is different. If we want women of color to be well, we must talk about, learn from, and work for women of color.
Maternal mental health is a critical issue impacting all families, but cultural factors can significantly influence a mother's experience. Here's a breakdown of key points to consider:
Facts and Stats:
Disparities in Rates: Black and American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN) women experience disproportionately higher rates of postpartum depression compared to white women
Cultural Stigma: Stigma surrounding mental health can be particularly strong in some cultures, leading to delayed help-seeking and poorer outcomes
Support System Variations: Family structures and support systems differ across cultures, impacting a mother's access to emotional and practical help