Journal Reflection on maternal mental health- Comprehensive Nursing essay Example
The World Health Organization defines maternal mental health as a state in which a mother can cope with normal life stresses, work productively and contribute to the community based on her abilities. Additionally, WHO reports that one in ten women in developed countries experience mental health problems during pregnancy and after childbirth (WHO, 2018). Social determinants are one of the most significant risk factors that lead to maternal mental health issues. These factors include intimate partner violence, unintended pregnancy, poor socioeconomic status, and less valued social roles (Goyal & Garapaty, 2017). (Journal Reflection on maternal mental health- Comprehensive Nursing essay Example)
Pre-existing psychological conditions such as depression, suicide attempts, substance abuse, and unwanted pregnancies also contribute to the high rate of maternal mental health problems (WHO, 2018). These problems negatively impact the health of the mother and the child. Specifically, these women are prone to having poor physical health, persistent use of alcohol and substance abuse, increased risk of preterm birth, and obstetric complications. Moreover, these women are less likely to take care of themselves and seek antenatal and postnatal care as recommended. In worse cases, pregnant women and mothers suffering from mental health can die from suicide, jeopardizing the child’s survival (Goyal & Garapaty, 2017).(Journal Reflection on maternal mental health- Comprehensive Nursing essay Example)
Maternal mental health issues are not given enough attention in society despite the adverse effects on pregnant women, mothers, and children. Therefore, I would like to work with Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance (MMHLA) to advocate for this population and raise awareness on the need to speak up and seek mental help when these women feel psychologically disturbed. MMHLA is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the mental health of pregnant women and mothers who have just delivered in the United States, enhancing equity (MMHLA, 2021). My interests align with this organizations, making it the most suitable advocacy platform.(Journal Reflection on maternal mental health- Comprehensive Nursing essay Example)
References
Goyal, D., & Garapaty, B. (2017). Maternal mental health. Health of South Asians in the United States, 241-258.(Journal Reflection on maternal mental health- Comprehensive Nursing essay Example) https://doi.org/10.1201/9781315366685-13
MMHLA. (2021, September 13). Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance.(Journal Reflection on maternal mental health- Comprehensive Nursing essay Example) https://www.mmhla.org/
WHO (2018). WHO | World Health Organization.(Journal Reflection on maternal mental health- Comprehensive Nursing essay Example) https://www.who.int/mental_health/prevention/suicide/Perinatal_depression_mmh_final.pdf
