Did you know that Black birthing individuals face significantly more physical and mental health concerns during pregnancy than other women?
The week of April 11th to April 17th is Black Maternal Health Week, a time to amplify the voices and experiences of Black mothers and birthing individuals. During this week, we encourage all to consider the disparities and lack of access to care often faced by Black individuals, and how we can bring attention to these disparities to increase quality care.
This week and throughout the year, we encourage all to acknowledge and advocate for increased awareness of perinatal mental health concerns.
Risk Factors:
Social and racial disparities can have a large impact on the mental health of individuals who are pregnant, struggling with fertility or loss, or any other concerns during pregnancy.
Birthing individuals, as well as adoptive parents, partners, or parents via surrogacy are at a higher risk of developing a perinatal mental health concern if they have experienced the following:
- History or family history of depression, substance use or other mental health problems
- Difficult relationships or lack of support from partner, friends or other family members
- Financial or housing stressors
- Young maternal age
- Stressful life events, home relocation, death of a family member, etc.
- Sleep difficulties
- Pregnancy complications and/or traumatic birth
- Grief and loss of pregnancy/baby (miscarriage, termination, stillbirth)
Perinatal Services at Horizon
If you are experiencing perinatal mental health concerns, treatment is available at Horizon. Our trained professionals are here to support you during challenging and transition times.
Our Programming Offers:
- Perinatal Trained Therapists
- Supportive counseling with telehealth and in-person appointments available
- Perinatal Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
- Referral to psychiatric providers specializing in perinatal services
- And more!
Learn more about Horizon’s Perinatal Mental Health program here!
As an organization focused on raising mental health awareness and support, Horizon is committed to providing quality care for all. Click here to learn more about Horizon’s Stronger Together Commitments.
If you or a loved one is struggling, Horizon is here to help. Contact us today at 716.831.1800 to schedule an appointment with our trained professionals.