Thursday, May 8, 2025
"Encircled With Care: Holistic Postpartum Mental Health Support for Communities of Color"
Join us for Day 5 of the National Postpartum Awareness Week (PAW) for Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) for this essential conversation on building a circle of care that prioritizes community-driven, culturally rooted postpartum mental health support. Postpartum mental health is deeply connected to the strength of the support systems surrounding birthing people. Too often, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) experience isolation, inadequate care, and systemic barriers that make it difficult to access the resources needed for emotional and psychological well-being after birth. This session will explore the impact of intergenerational wisdom, traditional healing practices, and trauma-informed approaches in addressing postpartum depression, anxiety, and overall wellness.
During the postpartum period BIPOC birthing people can experience shifts in their minds, bodies and spirits that can be ignited and exacerbated by experiences of emotional pain, grief, anxiety, and depression. Furthermore, families experiencing pregnancy or infant loss may feel isolated, guilty, and angry, navigating profound grief without the covering of a village. In many BIPOC communities, there exists a culture of shame and silence around naming their mental and emotional needs and struggles. Society perpetuates the myth that seeking support is a sign of a weakness and this harmful narrative can be amplified during the 4th trimester, especially in communities of color.
Together, we are breaking the stigma and acknowledging the courage and strength it takes for BIPOC birthing people to reach out for support. We invite the community to join us for an open dialogue and collective healing experience as we exchange tools and resources, cultivate a sense of connection through storytelling, and remind every birthing person, caregiver, partner and family members that they are not alone.