May 2024 | Issue One
“The love of a mother is never ending; remaining the foundation that molds us into the people we become”
- Maternal Mental Health -
Maternal mental health highlights the overall wellbeing of a mother during and after her pregnancy. As Mother’s Day approaches, I think it is important to call attention to the relationship between expectant mothers and mental health. When pregnancy is announced, loved ones often wait gleefully for the arrival of a new bundle of joy. During this time, we must remember to care for the mother who is spearheading their creation. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, approximately 1 in 5 women will experience mood and anxiety disorders during their pregnancy; with the most common being depression. Unfortunately, it is reported that roughly 10% of expectant mothers will pursue the appropriate treatment for these concerns.
As most instances of mental health, there are multiple risk factors associated with increasing mental health concerns for this population. Some risk factors include, but are not limited to: history of mental health concerns, adverse childhood experiences, socioeconomic status, inadequate living conditions, major life events, experiences of abuse, low-self esteem, and concern for the overall wellbeing of the baby. While risk factors exist in multiple scenarios, each individuals experience with a potential risk factor and how they respond is different. With that being said, risk factors could be offset by existing protective factors such as maternal resilience, positive social support and family functioning, and effective coping mechanisms.
Once a child is brought into the world, Mother’s are at risk of postpartum depression (PPD), which is the most common mental health disorder postnatal. PPD is classified as a mental health condition which consists of physical, behavioral, and emotional changes that occur in some mothers after giving birth. According to the CDC, 1 in 8 women experience PPD and fifty percent of these women are untreated. These statistics in conjunction with those stated above show that there is a large disparity when it comes to maternal figures and mental health care. While some may refer to or mistaken PPD as the “baby blues” there are distinct differences between the two. The baby blues refer to significant hormonal changes that can cause increased anxiety, restlessness, and crying. However, this typically goes away within the first two weeks after giving birth as the hormone levels return to baseline. Symptoms of PPD may include insomnia, irritability, hopelessness, anhedonia, and difficulty bonding with the newborn. Symptoms may begin within 48 hours of childbirth and could occur up to six months postpartum. Some studies suggest that symptoms may begin 6 months postpartum and continue well into the first year postnatal.
PPD could have a larger impact on the infant as the symptoms may interfere with the mothers ability to connect with her newborn. Studies also suggest that PPD could contribute to impairments in development related to poor nutrition and health. If left untreated, PPD could evolve into a chronic depressive disorder. However, PPD increases the chances of depressive episodes in the future regardless of treatment. There are varying ways to explore treatment options for PPD. Mothers could identify a positive support group to assist in processing postpartum or explore traditional talk therapy to engage in one on one support with a licensed clinician.
To learn more about Postpartum Depression, please visit: www.postpartumdepression.org
If you are located in Raleigh, NC and is searching for additional support surrounding postnatal mental health care please visit Anchor Perinatal Wellness.
- I AM IYALUUA -
It would not feel right if I launched this business without acknowledging and paying respect to my late great grandmother, Constance Swan.. also known as Mama Iyaluua Ferguson. On February 27th 2024 at approximately 3:00 am, the Matriarch of my family left our physical plane and joined the ancestors who have departed before her. Not only was she was my great grandmother, she was a teacher and an activist as she was one of the founding members of the Malcolm X Commemoration Committee; fighting for human rights and the liberation of black people.
I owe a lot to my great grandmother. She was an integral part of the village it took to raise me. When I think of her accomplishments within the movement, I see a direct correlation to the work I do as a Social Worker. My great grandmother taught me the importance of advocacy, self determination, and fighting for what you believe in and for those who may not have the voice or strength to fight for themselves.
The day she passed, is the same day I received a Notice of Termination from my part time gig. At the time, it seemed as though the world was stacked against me; but this needed to happen as it catapulted me into a space to foster Blaize Bureau Consulting, a business I’ve thought of starting for years, but was too afraid. Repeatedly counting myself out. Looking back, it is almost as if things had to happen this way, and I am eternally grateful to have had such an icon to look up too. I have felt my great grandmother walking alongside me every step of the way since, after all... I am Iyaluua.
- To ALL Mothers and Figures Alike -
Mother. A term with multiple definitions; A woman in relation to her child or children. To give birth to. To bring up a child with care and affection. Love. Thank you for your unending sacrifices and unconditional nurturance. As children, we take the role of mother for granted. Not fully understanding the sacrifices made just to ensure our wellbeing and safety. Our mother’s wear multiple hats: educator, nurse, confidant, friend, disciplinarian, and more. Looking back, I am grateful for every single hat worn.
While the term mother is often used to identify a woman who has given birth to a child; It is important to acknowledge all forms of “Mother” and Figures Alike. For a mother figure could be an older sister who cared for her siblings after their mother’s passing. An aunt who cares for her nieces and nephews as if they were her own, consoling their aches and pains. A foster mother who saw a bright future in a young spirit and provided a safe haven. A pastor who prays for wellness and mercies over their congregation. “Mother” continues to take on different forms and exists in a multitude of ways. Through these avenues, the love of a mother is never ending; remaining the foundation that molds us into the people we become.
This Mother’s Day, spread love as this particular holiday could spark painful memories and unspoken desires for thousands across the globe. We are sending love to those whose mother is no longer present on the physical plane. Mother’s who have lost their child(ren). Mothers with an estranged relationship to a child. Those who have been adopted or fostered. Those who are unable to carry a child. Birthing parents who made it possible for a family to feel complete. Mother’s who battle mental health or chronic illness...
Happy Mother’s Day
- Welcome to Blaize Bureau Consulting -
I want to take a moment to thank you for coming on this journey with me! I am super excited to launch this business. Blaize Bureau Consulting has been in the making for years, it just took me some time to finally put it together and trust in myself! I am overwhelmed with gratitude and joy for all, particularly my clinical supervisor, Mom, bestfriend, and partner, who supported me through this process!
At Blaize Bureau Consulting we are committed to supporting individuals, particularly BIPOC, as they take control of their own destiny and embark on a journey toward personal and professional growth through life coaching and job development skills. In addition, I have curated a number of workshops (Substance Misuse & Naloxone Administration, Emotional Wellbeing, & Healthy Communication with Children) that I cannot wait to share with you all! With these workshops I hope to create a safe space for different populations as well as bring awareness to mental health and reduce stigma.
Stay tuned and buckle up for the journey, this is the only the beginning.
Upcoming Events
Intersectionality and Mental Health Workshop | Saturday, June 8th 2024 at 9:00 am
During this workshop we will explore and dissect risk factors and identifiers for mental health (depression, anxiety, suicidality, etc.) for men, women, and individuals identifying as LGBTQIA+. In addition, we will identify how intersectionality plays a role in mental wellbeing for different groups.
As individuals, clinicians, and professionals, are we aware of our biases towards particular groups? Are we aware of unintentional harm we may cause to these groups? Lets find out and unpack together!
Virtual Suicide Prevention Training | Wednesday, June 26th 2024 at 8:00 am
QPR is an emergency mental health intervention for individuals who may be experiencing a suicide crisis. Ultimately, The Gatekeeper training is designed to teach individuals how to recognize the warning signs of and interrupt the crisis while directing the individual to proper care and resources.
This training is accessible to anyone who desires to support the mental health of their loved ones, friends, neighbors, and community. Certified Gatekeepers could operate as a bridge for a person in need; becoming an integral part of early recognition and early intervention.
