Colorado program raising awareness about mental health struggles facing pregnant, postpartum women

The Colorado Perinatal Mental Health Project is raising awareness about the mental health struggles faced by pregnant and postpartum women, revealing that one in five women experience mental health issues after childbirth. Emely Romero shared her personal battle with postpartum anxiety, detailing how therapy significantly improved her life. The organization offers various resources, including prenatal classes and support groups, to assist mothers during their pregnancy and postpartum phases. Kristin Aaker, co-executive director, emphasized the need for equitable access to mental health resources, particularly for vulnerable communities. Romero, now a mental health group facilitator, advocates for the importance of seeking help, noting that many support options are available at low or no cost.

The initiative aims to address the substantial decline in mothers' mental health observed from 2016 to 2023, as highlighted by a recent study.