The Stigma of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Recognizing postpartum symptoms beyond the baby blues.

Posted October 25, 2024 | Reviewed by Lybi Ma

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) affect approximately one in five new birthing parents, predominantly mothers. PMADs encompass a range of mental health conditions that can occur during pregnancy or postpartum . These include depression , anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and, in rare cases, psychosis . Based on the responses from over 1000 caregivers in our study with Nested and New York University, PMADs remain shrouded in social stigma, preventing individuals from seeking and receiving support.

Myths and Unrealistic Expectations

One of the most significant contributors to this stigma is the idealized image of motherhood. Society often portrays new mothers as glowing with happiness and effortlessly bonding with their newborns. Yet, as author Chelsea Conaboy writes, the brain is re-wired among both birthing and non-birthing parents to take care of the baby even when one does not feel drawn to them. Nature has figured out a way to deal with the very natural feeling of not feeling an instant bond with one’s baby.

This unrealistic expectation creates a sense of shame and inadequacy for those struggling with PMADs. Mothers may feel pressure to suppress their true emotions, fearing judgment and criticism if they deviate from the "perfect mother" archetype. This internalized stigma can lead to self-blame, isolation, and a reluctance to disclose their struggles. The misconception that PMADs are a sign of weakness or an inability to cope with motherhood further exacerbates the stigma.

Having Someone to Confide in About Mental Health Struggles

In our current study, only 33 percent of those who experienced depression and 26 percent who experienced anxiety postpartum were screened during follow-up obstetric or pediatric appointments. These numbers suggest that a substantial barrier to support is participants simply not being professionally screened. For example, one mother shared: “I received no screening and extremely little care postpartum.”

Furthermore, of those screened, 49.8 percent reported they did not feel that they could answer the questions honestly. As one mother shared, “I felt ashamed for having the feelings so I did not truthfully answer the questions.” Another mother found it challenging to disclose what she was feeling to the pediatrician, saying, “There was no way I was going to be honest in a screening that was being given by someone who didn’t know me and wasn’t my provider. Not to mention, it felt selfish to express I was struggling at an appointment about (my baby).”

Social stigma also plays a role in the support birthing parents seek. Only 22 percent of respondents felt comfortable speaking openly with their partner and 29 percent with their care providers about their feelings. As one participant said, “At one point, I was like, all right, suicidal , for sure. But no one knew. I did not share it with my husband; there were times when I was like, this is just not worth it.”

Mothers may hesitate to confide in healthcare providers, fearing judgment or that their concerns will be dismissed. As one mother noted, “Every pediatrician encounter after screening felt very “tsk tsk,” you need to do X-Y-Z and you’re not doing it. Like sure, lemme just add more to my plate while I and baby are already not okay.” They may also fear the repercussions of being honest. One mother shared, “It took until my third [child] to be honest. Feelings of harming myself persisted for years after each pregnancy, but I was terrified to admit them. I thought they would separate me and my baby.”

A Path to Destigmatizing PMADs

We need a collective effort—from individual caregivers to their support networks, healthcare providers, and society at large—to destigmatize PMADs. By normalizing conversations about mental health during and after pregnancy, we can reduce the shame and isolation associated with these conditions.

Empower Caregivers to Speak Up
Engage the Support Network
Healthcare Providers as Advocates
Changing Societal Narratives

Share this post Facebook Bluesky Linkedin Email

There was a problem adding your email address. Please try again.

By submitting your information you agree to the Psychology Today Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Erin O’Connor, Ed.D. , is a Professor in Teaching and Learning at New York University’s Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, and Program Leader for Early Childhood at NYU.

Get the help you need from a therapist near you–a FREE service from Psychology Today.

This article is part of the Bringwise Psychology Journal — daily insights on human behavior, mental health, and personal growth.