8 FACTS ON REPRODUCTIVE MENTAL HEALTH

Here are 8 facts illuminating why the BC Women’s Health Foundation is proud to launch our Reproductive Mental Health campaign – raising funds and awareness for four innovative reproductive mental health initiatives.

1. Based on international data, it is estimated that up to 1 in 5 women experience postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, or other reproductive mental health concerns.
2. In British Columbia almost one quarter (23%) of new mothers reported feelings consistent with postpartum depression or anxiety.
3. About half of all women with a history of depression will experience perinatal depression.
4. Women with medically complicated pregnancies have significantly higher rates of anxiety than other pregnant women.
5. Recent immigrant women and refugees are 3-5 times more likely to experience postpartum depression than Canadian-born women.
6. Indigenous women in British Columbia, are at least 2 times as likely to experience postpartum depression.
7. In Canada the rate of anxiety disorders during pregnancy and postpartum is estimated to be 3-4 times that of depression.
8. Early research shows that there has been a substantial increase in the likelihood of maternal-related depression and anxiety for women in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic.

By investing in reproductive mental health resources, and the researchers who develop the pathways toward solutions, we can improve the experiences of women seeking support in BC.

STAY ENGAGED

• Buy tickets for GLOW, an interactive broadcast raising funds for reproductive mental health research.
• Donate today to ensure women’s reproductive mental health needs are met.
• Learn more about our Reproductive Mental Health campaign.

Do you have a lived experience with reproductive mental health you’d like to share? Use your voice. By sharing your story, women across the province can relate, find solace, and muster the courage to share theirs too.

BC Women’s Health Foundation is BC’s largest non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the full spectrum of women’s health. The information shared is intended to educate, inform, and point readers to credible sources. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice. 

If you are struggling with your mental health, or concerned about someone else, call the BC Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789 (do not add 604, 778 or 250 before the number). It’s free and available 24 hours a day. If you prefer to access help and support via email, contact bcpartners@heretohelp.bc.ca.