Maternal mental health is a critical but often overlooked part of pregnancy and postpartum care. Up to 20% of women experience maternal mental health (MMH) disorders such as postpartum depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bipolar disorder, or psychosis. Yet, most of these women are never diagnosed or treated—leaving more than 600,000 women in the U.S. each year to suffer without adequate support.
Untreated depression and other mental health conditions can lead to serious consequences for both mother and baby. A CDC study found that healthcare providers often miss opportunities to screen for maternal depression: 1 in 5 pregnant women are not asked about depression during prenatal visits, and 1 in 8 women are not asked during postpartum visits, despite showing symptoms.
At Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, we believe mental health is health. The Wellness Care Department within our Women’s Health Center provides psychiatry and psychotherapy services as part of the elevateHER program. Patients are referred to a dedicated team of psychiatrists, psychotherapists, and social workers who specialize in maternal mental health.
The Wellness Care Clinic offers both in-person and virtual visits, removing barriers to access and helping reduce the stigma around seeking mental health support. All pregnant and postpartum patients receive screening through evidence-based tools, ensuring that symptoms are identified early and treatment can begin quickly.
Through Wellness Care, the elevateHER program prioritizes mental health as an essential part of whole-person care, empowering women to heal, thrive, and care for their families with the support they deserve.
