Maternal Mental Health Journey Map
This research visualizes the complex emotional and clinical stages of the maternal mental health experience, from initial pregnancy through postpartum recovery and the return to work.
The journey map identifies critical “pain points” and opportunities for intervention during major life transitions, such as “Finding Out,” “Breastfeeding,” and “Finding a Therapist”.
- Phase Analysis: Breaks the experience into three primary timelines—Expecting, Prenatal, and Postpartum—to track a mother’s evolving thoughts and needs.
- Key Recommendations: Advocates for systemic improvements, including prenatal mental health check-ins, the use of doulas as advocates, and the integration of sleep strategies early in the postpartum phase.
- Clinical Insight: Emphasizes that paper-based screenings are insufficient and must be supplemented by human connection and detailed explanation.
- Holistic Support: Highlights how breastfeeding significantly impacts mental health and calls for a more diverse workforce trained specifically in maternal support.
- Policy Goals: Supports paid parental leave as a primary driver for improved outcomes for the entire family.
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