Maternal Suicide Prevention Awareness Month: Breaking the Silence, Saving Lives

---

September marks Maternal Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time to shed light on an urgent yet often overlooked issue in maternal health. While we frequently talk about the physical changes and challenges of pregnancy and postpartum, the mental health of mothers is sometimes left in the shadows. The reality is sobering: maternal suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the perinatal period, yet it is rarely discussed openly.

The Hidden Crisis

Studies show that maternal suicide accounts for approximately 1 in 5 deaths during the first year after birth. Many mothers silently carry the weight of depression, anxiety, or trauma, often feeling pressured to present as “strong” or “happy” during a time society says should only be joyful.

The silence surrounding maternal mental health means too many women suffer alone. Suicidal thoughts, intrusive fears, and overwhelming hopelessness are real—and they do not make someone a “bad mother.” They make her human.

Why We Need to Talk About It

• Stigma keeps mothers quiet. Shame and fear of judgment often prevent women from seeking help.

• Lack of screening. Postpartum mental health screenings are still inconsistent in many healthcare settings.

• Barriers to care. Limited access to affordable mental health services, cultural stigma, or lack of childcare make it difficult for mothers to get the support they need.

  
  

By acknowledging these challenges and talking about maternal suicide, we break the silence that keeps many mothers suffering in isolation.

Warning Signs to Look Out For

While every woman’s experience is unique, some warning signs may include:

• Expressing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness

• Withdrawal from loved ones or social activities

• Changes in sleep and appetite beyond typical postpartum adjustments

• Talking about being a burden or that her family would be “better off without her”

• Persistent sadness, anxiety, or agitation

What Can Help

• Early Screening and Intervention: Regular mental health check-ins during and after pregnancy.

• Support Systems: Family, partners, and friends play a critical role in offering nonjudgmental support and checking in regularly.

• Professional Care: Access to counseling, therapy, and, when needed, medication, can be life-saving.

• Community Conversations: Breaking the stigma through education and open dialogue.

Building a Culture of Support

Preventing maternal suicide is not the responsibility of mothers alone. It requires a collective effort. Partners, families, communities, healthcare providers, and organizations all play a role in supporting mothers. By creating safe, supportive spaces and prioritizing maternal mental health, we move closer to a future where no mother feels alone in her struggles.

Maternal suicide is preventable. This month and every month, we invite you to join the conversation. Check in with the mothers in your life, encourage open dialogue about mental health, and help build a culture where asking for help is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness.

If You Need Support

Reaching out for help is a brave step toward healing. Your well-being matters, and support is available when you need it.

• Postpartum Support International Helpline📞 1-800-944-4773📲 Text “HELP” to 800-944-4773

• Suicide & Crisis Lifeline📞 Dial 988 — available 24/7, toll-free in the U.S.

If you or someone you love is experiencing suicidal thoughts in Indianapolis or anywhere in the U.S., please reach out for immediate help.

Every call can be the beginning of hope and restoration.