The mental health of mothers in the United States is in crisis. Approximately 20% of mothers are impacted by mental health conditions during pregnancy and postpartum, affecting 800,000 families annually, and making it the most common complication of pregnancy. These conditions not only harm the mothers but can also have a profound effect and lasting impact on the health and development of their infants. Preventing and treating maternal mental health conditions should be top of mind for cities as it is crucial for the well-being of the mother, as well as the healthy trajectory of their children.
Mental Health During the Perinatal Period
The perinatal period is defined as the time during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum. During this time, women are particularly vulnerable to the emergence or exacerbation of mental health conditions. Depression is the most common of these conditions, but others include anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and psychosis. While anyone can experience perinatal mental health problems, certain populations — such as women of color, those impacted by poverty and military service members and spouses — often face stress and health disadvantages that increase their likelihood. According to the CDC, maternal mental health conditions have become one of the major underlying causes of pregnancy-related deaths in the United States. Despite its prevalence, several barriers, such as lack of access to healthcare, feelings of shame, stigma, guilt and logistical challenges (including not being able to take off work or find child care) make it difficult for women to access the care and support they need.
Risks to the Child
Research has found that poor maternal mental health impacts the baby even before they are born. A study published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics found that anxiety and depression during pregnancy could expose the fetus to increased concentrations of the stress hormone cortisol, leading to changes in brain function and reducing the flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients. Infants born to mothers with untreated mental health conditions are also at higher risk for preterm birth, low birth weight and longer stays in the neonatal intensive care unit. The consequences of untreated conditions are not restricted to infancy, but can extend into toddlerhood, preschool age and even school age. These include risks of insecure attachment, behavioral and cognitive delays, and emotional problems.
Municipal leaders have an important role to play in solving the maternal mental health crisis by educating themselves on this topic and advocating for policies that support maternal mental health such as mandatory screening and better healthcare access. Raising awareness for this issue, as well as allocating funds for maternal mental health programs and services, are two other crucial steps cities can take in support of this population.
Some notable efforts how city leaders across the United States have supported maternal and infant mental health include:
New York City, New York
The New York City Council passed a legislative package aimed at addressing maternal mental health disparities, including postpartum support groups and informational resources to families. Additionally, in May 2024, Mayor Eric Adams announced a $34 million initiative that offers support services and referrals to new and expectant parents through in-person or virtual visits by trained health workers.
Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore has adopted a multisector, community-driven approach to provide comprehensive support for mothers and infants. This includes their B’more for Healthy Babies Initiative, which is run by the Baltimore City Health Department, and aims to help pregnant and postpartum women access prenatal services, supportive services and resources.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
In honor of Black Maternal Health Week 2025, the City of Atlantic City’s CDBG and Health and Human Services Departments hosted the 1st Annual Mamas’ Mixer. This event brought together community members, advocates, healthcare professionals and local leaders to connect and engage in meaningful conversations about improving Black maternal health outcomes.
Take Action
By taking proactive steps, city leaders can create a supportive environment that promotes the mental health of mothers and ensures that children have a strong foundation for healthy development, in turn leading to stronger and more resilient communities.
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