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Darkness After Delivery

By: Iyana Johnson and Ja’Zonna Bouie

OVERVIEW

Postpartum depression (PPD) in Ohio is a pressing issue affecting thousands of families, especially in rural and marginalized communities. It is a serious and often misunderstood mental health condition that can develop after childbirth. It affects not only a new mothers emotional well-being but also her ability to function, bond with her baby, and also care for herself. PPD can begin anytime within the first year postpartum, but often emerges within the first few weeks after giving birth. It is important for people to know about this because early recognition is crucial for the mother and baby.

PROBLEM STATEMENT

Postpartum depression (PPD) affects an estimated 13–20% of new mothers in Ohio. Many women, especially in rural or low-income areas, struggle to access proper mental health care due to stigma, provider shortages, and lack of resources. As a result, PPD often goes undiagnosed and untreated, leading to serious consequences for both mothers and their children. We aim to explore the causes of PPD in Ohio and propose solutions to improve support and treatment access.

By:, M. R. and F.-C., & Editor, M. (2024, April 2). Postpartum depression statistics: Research and data on PPD (2024). PostpartumDepression.org.

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OBJECTIVES

  • Understand the rate and causes of postpartum depression among mothers in different parts of Ohio.
  • Identify challenges that prevent women from getting the mental health care they need, such as lack of access, social stigma, or limited resources.
  • Gather information from real people, like mothers or health professionals, to learn about their experiences with postpartum depression.
  • Create solutions or ideas that can help more women get support and treatment after giving birth.

WHAT WE LEARNED

Thank you for your investment in our Youth Leaders: City of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University Sears think[box]; DigitalC; RPM International Inc.; CHN Housing Partners; Ratner Family Foundation; Youth Opportunities Unlimited; Cleveland EMS; The Vanguards of Cleveland & Cleveland Fire; Kimberly Inthavong of Seven Ways To Live; Mary Nazimiec; Kevin Ringer; and Tasty Treasures.

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PROPOSED SOLUTION

  • After birth, you can get more help with a doula to help with postpartum depression in Ohio.
  • In Ohio, The Cleveland Clinic offers a program specifically designed to support women experiencing postpartum depression. The program provides counseling, therapy and medical care to help mothers manage their mental health postpartum.
  • Reach out to a hotline immediately if you’re in emotional crisis.
  • 1-800‑755‑4769 - The Ohio Department of Health

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*Psychotherapy - help to talk through your concerns with a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health professional.

SPECIAL THANKS

  • Under-detection: Fewer than half of rural women with PPD receive mental health treatment.
  • Community engagement: The project conducted 12 focus groups with patients and providers and formed a patient-centered group to tailor future interventions.
  • Overall Ohio PPD rates hover around 1 in 7 mothers (~14%)
  • Symptoms range from persistent sadness and energy loss to severe anxiety or psychosis in rare cases
  • Characteristics can come from a history of depression and or anxiety, childhood trauma.

SOURCES

https://www.americashealthrankings.org/explore/measures/postpartum_depression/OH

https://www.zurzuvae.com

https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/postpartum-depression

https://www.abct.org/fact-sheets/postpartum-depression-and-anxiety/

https://www.postpartumdepression.org/resources/statistics/?utm_source=chatgpt.com