Postpartum Support International launches perinatal mental health app

Postpartum Support International, a US organisation which provides support and resources to women experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, has launched a mental health app.

The Connect app, developed as part of Postpartum Support International’s commitment to give all families the best start possible, aims to address the needs of the full spectrum of the perinatal mental health community.

The platform allows users to access the organisation’s helpline and crisis assistance and a supportive community made up of fellow patients and medical professionals. Helpline and crisis numbers are available in English and Spanish.

It also features a library of resources where users can access articles and other materials covering various topics related to perinatal mental health, including self-care tips, coping strategies and treatment options.

One in five women and at least one in 10 men experience depression or anxiety during the perinatal period, which includes pregnancy, post-loss, and 12 months postpartum.

Perinatal mental health disorders are the most frequent complications of childbearing, and they are also ranked among the top underlying causes of pregnancy-related deaths in the US.

Although postpartum depression is commonly cited, other perinatal mental health disorders include anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and psychosis. They affect parents of every culture, age, income, gender and race.

“We know the people who need us most often have very little time to care for their own needs, so we are always looking for ways to welcome them into our community,” said Wendy Davis, executive director of Postpartum Support International.

“This app embodies our commitment to providing accessible, stigma-free support for individuals navigating the mental health challenges surrounding pregnancy, postpartum, and/or loss.”

She added: “With Connect, we want to educate, empower, and uplift those affected by perinatal mental health disorders and foster a sense of community on their journey to healing.”