#KnowMomFacts
Earlier this month, September 7-11, was Maternal Suicide Awareness Week. Bright Beginnings joined the campaign, launched by 2020 Mom in 2018, to raise awareness and remember moms lost to maternal suicide, one of the leading causes of maternal mortality. For years there were misconceptions about pregnancy and the postpartum period being protective against depression and suicide. We know now that this simply isn’t true and it’s time to raise awareness about maternal depression and psychosis, leading causes of maternal suicide. Please use and share the Maternal Suicide Awareness facts and resources:
- The Frontline Doula “Hotline” is a respectful “warm line” that allows Black Mamas to schedule a call with a doula at no cost. Frontline Doulas’ mission is to support the connection between Black doulas and Black birthing families in need of non-medical emotional support and practical guidance on common pregnancy and postpartum related concerns. Learn more here.
- If you or someone you know needs help, the Postpartum Support International Helpline can be reached at 1-800-944-4773. You can also send a text message to 971-420-0294 for Spanish or 503-894-9453 for English. Volunteers offer encouragement, information, and treatment resources in your community.
- If you or someone you know is in crisis, please contact the national Crisis Text Lineby texting HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the USA, anytime, about any type of crisis. Or call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255.
Click here to learn about the Monterey County Maternal Mental Health Taskforce and their work to increase community supports for pregnant and parenting mothers and their families.