Common mental health symptoms among pregnant black people

Black women experience higher levels of mental health distress during pregnancy, according to a study published in December. of nurse.

Susan Gennaro, PhD, RN, of Boston University’s William F. Connell School of Nursing in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, and colleagues estimated the prevalence of mental health conditions (depression, anxiety, and stress) in 452 pregnant black women. investigated. .

Researchers found that 42.9% had elevated scores on measures of depression, anxiety, and stress. Among these 194 study participants, the average scores were 9.16 for anxiety, 12.80 for depression, and 21.79 for stress. More than one-third (36.1%) of participants experienced two symptoms, and one-third reported all three symptoms.

“Black pregnant women experience high levels of comorbid mental health distress, including depression, anxiety, and stress,” the authors write. “The results of this study show that treatments for mental health concerns need to be broad-based and effective for all three conditions. Prenatal interventions are particularly important for pregnant Black people. In contrast, we should aim to address mental health distress through screening and treatment for depression, anxiety, and stress.” This study found that the prevalence of prenatal mental health conditions among pregnant Black people Learn more about rates. ”