White House: Black Maternal Health Week Proclamation

The White House signed a Proclamation for Black Maternal Health Week for April 11-17th. In the document, the Administration highlights the disparities among black mothers including the high mortality rate and decrease in maternal mental health and aims to raise awareness all Americans to raise awareness of the state of Black maternal health in the United States by understanding the consequences of institutional racism.

It is reported that one-in-five women in America experience maternal mental health conditions like postpartum depression, anxiety, or substance use disorder. As such, the Administration launched the Maternal Mental Health Hotline (1-833-9-HELP4MOMS) that connects individuals with professional counselors.  In addition, the White House has expanded maternal mental health screening programs for postpartum depression, while partnering with community-based organizations to help pregnant people access addiction services.