What is World Maternal Mental Health Day?

World Maternal Mental Health Day is observed annually on the first Wednesday of May, with the upcoming observance on May 7, 2025. This day aims to raise awareness about maternal mental health issues, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being for mothers during pregnancy and the postpartum period. It seeks to highlight the challenges many mothers face, reduce stigma, and promote resources and support systems to ensure they receive the care they need.

Maternal mental health encompasses a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, and postpartum psychosis, which can significantly impact both the mother and child’s well-being. Recognizing and addressing these issues is crucial for fostering healthy families and communities.

History and Origin

The initiative for World Maternal Mental Health Day began in 2016, driven by an international task force of maternal mental health advocates, clinicians, and researchers. Their goal was to create a unified day to focus global attention on maternal mental health, encouraging countries worldwide to prioritize, screen, and treat maternal mental health issues. Since its inception, the observance has grown, with numerous organizations and countries participating in various activities and campaigns to support maternal mental health.

Who Participates in World Maternal Mental Health Day?

• Healthcare Providers: Doctors, nurses, midwives, and mental health professionals engage in training and awareness programs to better support maternal mental health.​
• Nonprofit Organizations: Groups dedicated to maternal and child health organize events, workshops, and campaigns to educate the public and advocate for policy changes.​
• Mothers and Families: Individuals share personal stories, participate in support groups, and engage in community events to foster understanding and support.​
• Educators and Researchers: Academic institutions conduct studies and disseminate information on maternal mental health to inform best practices and policies.​
• General Public: Community members participate in events and social media campaigns to raise awareness and show support for maternal mental health initiatives.​mchb.hrsa.gov

Slogans and Themes

World Maternal Mental Health Day focuses on themes such as awareness, support, and advocacy. Common slogans include “Making Maternal Mental Health Matter,” “Stronger Together,” and “Break the Stigma: Support Maternal Mental Health.” These themes aim to encourage open conversations, provide support to those affected, and advocate for systemic changes to improve maternal mental health care.

Colors

• Blue: Symbolizes serenity and calm, reflecting the desired state of mental well-being for mothers.​
• Pink: Represents compassion and care, highlighting the nurturing aspect of motherhood.​
• Green: Denotes hope and renewal, emphasizing the journey towards mental health recovery.​

Symbols

• Blue Dot: Recognized as the international symbol for maternal mental health awareness, representing support and solidarity.​
• Mother and Child Icons: Depict the bond between mother and child, emphasizing the importance of maternal well-being.​
• Heart Shapes: Symbolize love and empathy, core elements in supporting maternal mental health.​

Patterns

• Interwoven Lines: Represent the interconnectedness of community support systems.​
• Circles: Signify unity and wholeness, reflecting comprehensive care approaches.​
• Waves: Illustrate the ebb and flow of mental health experiences, acknowledging both challenges and recoveries.​

Most Used Hashtags

• #MaternalMentalHealth
• #WorldMMHDay
• #SupportMoms
• #BreakTheStigma
• #StrongerTogether

How to Observe World Maternal Mental Health Day

• Participate in Educational Workshops: Attend events that provide information on recognizing and addressing maternal mental health issues.​
• Join Support Groups: Engage with communities that offer support and share experiences related to maternal mental health.​
• Share Information on Social Media: Use platforms to disseminate facts, personal stories, and resources to raise awareness.​
• Advocate for Policy Changes: Support initiatives aimed at improving maternal mental health services and access to care.​
• Practice Self-Care: Encourage mothers to prioritize their mental health through activities like mindfulness, exercise, and seeking professional help when needed.​

Why is World Maternal Mental Health Day Important?

Maternal mental health conditions are among the most common complications of pregnancy and childbirth, affecting at least 1 in 5 mothers each year. Despite their prevalence, many cases go undiagnosed and untreated due to stigma, lack of awareness, and insufficient resources. World Maternal Mental Health Day plays a crucial role in:

• Raising Awareness: Educating the public and healthcare providers about the importance of maternal mental health.​
• Reducing Stigma: Encouraging open discussions to normalize conversations around maternal mental health challenges.​
• Improving Access to Care: Advocating for better screening, support, and treatment options for mothers.​
• Supporting Families: Highlighting the impact of maternal mental health on families and promoting supportive environments.​
• Influencing Policy: Driving policy changes to allocate resources and attention to maternal mental health needs.​

By focusing on these areas, World Maternal Mental Health Day aims to ensure that all mothers receive the mental health care and support they deserve, leading to healthier outcomes for families and communities.