TL/DR –
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has launched a national strategy to address the maternal mental health crisis. The strategy, developed by the Task Force on Maternal Mental Health, aims to reduce the stigma associated with mental health and substance use disorders, improve access to support, and promote equity in treatment. The approach is based on five pillars: building a national infrastructure that prioritizes perinatal mental health, making services accessible, using data and research to improve outcomes, promoting prevention, and lifting up the voices of those with lived experience.
U.S. Health Department Announces National Strategy for Maternal Mental Health
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today publicized a new national strategy to combat the pressing public health issue of maternal mental health and substance abuse. This strategy was proposed by the Task Force on Maternal Mental Health, under the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Advisory Committee for Women’s Services. The Report to Congress and National Strategy to Improve Maternal Mental Health Care align with the White House Blueprint for Addressing the Maternal Health Crisis and White House Initiative on Women’s Health Research.
With the highest maternal mortality rate among developed nations, the U.S. is grappling with a significant crisis. Over 22% of pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S. are linked with mental health and substance use issues. An estimated 20% of individuals are affected by mental health conditions and substance misuse during pregnancy and the postpartum period, predominantly impacting under-resourced communities and minority groups.
Top administration officials, including HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra and Deputy Secretary Andrea Palm, emphasized the critical need for addressing mental health challenges among mothers. They highlighted their commitment to reducing stigma and enhancing access to mental health support both within and outside of the healthcare system.
The Task Force on Maternal Mental Health, co-chaired by Admiral Rachel Levine, M.D., HHS Assistant Secretary for Health, and Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, Ph.D., HHS Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, operates under the Advisory Committee for Women’s Services. The team of experts brings a diverse range of expertise, including obstetrics and gynecology, maternal and child health, and counseling.
The national strategy outlines a comprehensive approach to integrate perinatal mental health and substance use care across medical, community, and social systems. The aim is to enhance equity and access, improve federal coordination, and leverage culturally relevant supports and trauma-informed methods. The strategy is structured around five key pillars, including building a national infrastructure, delivering equitable and affordable services, optimizing data and research, promoting prevention, and prioritizing the lived experiences of affected individuals.
The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline provides 24/7, confidential mental health support and is accessible in multiple languages. In times of crisis, help is available at 988 or 988lifeline.org. Resources for mental health, drug and alcohol issues can be found at FindSupport.gov or through SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 800-662-HELP (4357).
—
Read More Health & Wellness News ; US News