It Takes a Village: Supporting Maternal Mental Health Together

Maternal mental health challenges are far more common than most people realize. In Virginia alone, 1 in 8 mothers experience a maternal mental health condition…

For many new mothers, pregnancy and the months after birth are described as joyful, magical, and life changing. But the truth is, this time can also be isolating, exhausting, and overwhelming. When expectations don’t match reality, self-doubt and negative thoughts can creep in and faulty thinking begins.  If this sounds familiar, you are not alone.

Maternal mental health challenges are far more common than most people realize. In Virginia alone, 1 in 8 mothers experience a maternal mental health condition— including depression, anxiety, loneliness, hopelessness, suicide ideation, confusion, and irritability. Having these feelings during a time when mothers are told they should be the happiest can lead to guilt, shame, and uncertainty about how to ask for help. 

At The Women’s Center, we believe that support, empathy, and empowerment are crucial during this time. This is why we have joined forces with It Takes a Village, a state-wide maternal mental health initiative launched by the Virginia Health Care Foundation. This initiative aims at expanding access to compassionate and individualized care for pregnant and postpartum mothers across Virginia, especially in communities where mental health resources are limited. This partnership makes it possible for us to strengthen our services and reach those who might otherwise go without care. 

There are many reasons maternal mental health challenges can arise. The physical and mental recovery from giving birth, intense hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, weaning and adjusting to a new lifestyle can all take a toll. Some may experience mood swings, irritability, sadness, or feel disconnected from their baby, or their interests and hobbies. This may feel alarming and scary but as Pamela Uncles, one of our therapists, reminds us: “As soon as you let someone else in and you share something that you feel is supposed to be kept quiet, you will feel a great relief. You do not have to do it alone”. 

Through this initiative, we offer both in-person and telehealth counseling, making care more accessible for those who may not be able to leave home. Services are available regardless of income, with most insurances accepted and sliding-scale options offered. We also provide support for those who have experienced the loss of a child during the pregnancy and postpartum period. 

At The Women’s Center, we accept you as you are. We prioritize compassion and create a safe, healthy environment where, together, we can challenge self-doubts and judgments, and work towards resetting expectations. Because it truly takes a village to feel confident and comfortable during motherhood, and thanks to the Virginia Health Care Foundation, we can make that possible. 

We are so grateful to our three dedicated therapists: Pamela Uncles, Jillian Pignano, and Zaniya Brown, as well as our Clinical Director, Allison Medina. We also thank Eileen Avery who is leading a New Mom’s Support Group at The Center. Lastly, we are so incredibly thankful to the Virginia Health Care Foundation for bringing this initiative to life and providing us with essential resources and support.

Ready to take the next step?

Call us at (571) 385 – 1625 to make an appointment.

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Visit Our Services page to explore counseling, support groups, workshops, and other resources.