05/06/2026
We can't let this day pass without honoring Maternal Mental Health Awareness Day.
Three years ago, we hosted our very first Maternal Mental Health Conference to raise awareness for maternal mental health in our community and state. At the time, these conversations still felt too quiet, too overlooked, and too often pushed aside. Today, I’m grateful to see maternal mental health finally receiving the attention it has always deserved — not just nationally, but here in Indiana as well.
In 2023 the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health released their first state report cards on maternal mental health. Indiana rated a D. As of 2025 our rating has improved to a C (C+ national average) but the work most definitely continues (see link in comments).
The numbers remind us why this work matters. Mental health conditions are the most common complication of pregnancy and childbirth, affecting at least 1 in 5 mothers (800,000 families) each year in the United States. Indiana’s rates continue to reflect the urgent need for awareness, screening, support, and access to care. More importantly, we’ve learned that maternal mental health impacts not only mothers, but entire families and communities for generations to come.
As I reflect on these past three years, I’m incredibly proud of what this conference has become. It has created space for honest conversations, meaningful education, and community connection among providers, advocates, and organizations who care deeply about women and families.
This year, due to family circumstances, I needed to step back from hosting the conference. While that decision was not easy, it reminded me of something we often encourage others to do: honor the season you are in and prioritize what matters most.
Even with this pause, I remain hopeful and excited for what lies ahead. I look forward to continuing these conversations, strengthening partnerships, and expanding community networks in the years to come. The need is still there — and so is the passion to keep moving this work forward.
I am deeply grateful for every sponsor who has supported this mission over the years, every incredible speaker who shared their expertise and heart, and most of all, every attendee who showed up. You didn’t come just for yourselves — you came for the women, children, and families you serve every single day.
Thank you for believing that maternal mental health matters. Thank you for helping make these conversations louder, safer, and more impactful now and for years to come.
The work continues. 💜
