Issues Like Postpartum Depression And Anxiety Do Not Need To Be Faced Alone
Mineola, NY – A group of Nassau County legislators, officials, and mental health advocates and experts gathered today to raise awareness about the importance of mental health support for new mothers during Maternal Mental Health Month.
In a press conference held at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive and Legislative Building in Mineola, Legislator Samantha Goetz noted that it’s not uncommon for women to put on a brave face while dealing with mental health struggles. That message is especially poignant given that families across the U.S. will be celebrating Mother’s Day this weekend.
“Motherhood is one of the greatest blessings in life. It is also one of the most physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding journeys a woman will ever experience,” Goetz said. “Today, we celebrate mothers, which also means standing with those moms who may be struggling quietly behind the smiles.”
Pauline Walfisch, the chairwoman of the Nassau County Perinatal Services Network, spoke about how common it is for women to struggle with mental health during pregnancy and following childbirth. She explained that raising awareness of these issues can be a pathway to improving outcomes for everyone.
“Eighty percent of new moms experience mood changes in the weeks following birth, and for many that gets better with nothing more than some love, care, and support. But for one in five women…symptoms don’t improve, and they need help,” Walfisch stated. “The work we’re doing today will shape our future. We’re breaking generational patterns, we are improving outcomes, we’re strengthening families, and we’re saving lives.”
“With the steadfast support of County Executive Bruce Blakeman, the Department of Health has been able to bring together volunteers, providers, advocates, and community stakeholders through the Nassau County Perinatal Services Network to support mothers and families across Nassau County,” said Nassau County Health Commissioner Dr. Irina Gelman. “As we recognize Maternal Mental Health Month and celebrate Mother’s Day this weekend, we want every mom to know that her health and well-being matter, and that support is available for those who need it.”
The press conference also featured a pair of Long Island mothers and mental health advocates who have used their online platforms to raise awareness about maternal mental health. Victoria Caputo and Nicole Tropiano stated that maternal mental health issues should be spoken about more openly to reduce any stigma. They echoed the importance of new moms asking for help and relying on others to overcome adversity.
“Many mothers suffer in silence because they’re afraid of being judged, afraid people will think they’re weak, afraid someone will say ‘but you have so much to be happy about.’ And while that all may be true, mental health does not discriminate. You can deeply love your children and still struggle deeply yourself,” Caputo said.
“You just need one moment of courage to say ‘I’m not ok,’ and that’s it. Let people take it away. You don’t have to do this alone. And whether you feel like you’re alone, you are never alone,” Tropiano added.
Nassau County offers a Behavioral Health Hotline for anyone struggling with mental health issues. It can be reached by phone at (516) 227-TALK (8255).
