May 10 declared Maternal Mental Health Awareness Day

BY DEACONESS HEALTH SYSTEM

Mayor Stephanie Terry of Evansville has officially proclaimed May 10 as Maternal Mental Health Day, recognizing the critical importance of addressing maternal mental health and its impact on individuals in the perinatal period and their families.

In her proclamation, Mayor Terry highlighted the city’s commitment to raising awareness about the prevalence and risks associated with perinatal mental health disorders. Evansville aims to educate its residents about the resources and services available to support and treat these conditions, while actively working to eliminate the stigma surrounding maternal mental health.

Maternal mental health conditions are the most common complication of pregnancy and childbirth, affecting at least 1 in 5 childbearing individuals each year. Individuals of color face an increased risk of experiencing these conditions and are less likely to access care, underscoring the importance of addressing disparities in maternal mental health care access and outcomes.

The proclamation came about after the social work team from The Women’s Hospital, part of Deaconess Health System, reached out to the mayor’s office about the importance of maternal mental health. This commitment from The Women’s Hospital demonstrates their dedication to addressing this critical issue.

Deaconess, a leading healthcare provider in the region, is deeply committed to supporting maternal mental health. Our Center for Healing Arts and Wellness provides a number of programs and initiatives providing comprehensive care and support to mothers, fathers, guardians, and newborn babies affected by perinatal mental health disorders.

“We applaud Mayor Terry and the city of Evansville for their leadership in prioritizing maternal mental health,” The Women’s Hospital CEO Chris Ryan said. “At Deaconess, we recognize the profound impact of perinatal mental health disorders and remain steadfast in our commitment to providing compassionate care and support to all individuals and families in need.”

On Maternal Mental Health Day, Evansville residents are encouraged to join efforts to raise awareness, promote access to care, and support those affected by perinatal mental health disorders.

For more information about maternal mental health resources and services available at Deaconess, please visit deaconess.com/The-Womens-Hospital/Services/Center-for-Healing-Arts/Wellness-and-Counseling-Services or call 812-842-4328.

ABOUT DEACONESS HEALTH SYSTEM

Deaconess Health System is the premiere provider of health care services to 57 counties in southwestern Indiana, western Kentucky and southeastern Illinois. The system – based in Evansville, Indiana – includes 19 hospitals. Deaconess Clinic, a fully integrated multispecialty group, provides patients with consistent and convenient care. Additional components of the Health System include The Women’s Hospital, Linda E. White Hospice House, a cancer center, urgent care facilities, near site clinics, telemedicine, virtual visits and a number of partnerships with other regional health care providers.