Postpartum Mental Health Disorders and Black Women
- Kezzia
- Oct 3
- 3 min read
Learn how to overcome various postpartum disorders from a black female therapist
Bringing life into the world is often described as one of the most beautiful experiences. Yet for many women—especially Black women—the postpartum journey can also be one of the most difficult. While some mothers feel joy and bonding right away, others face intense emotions that can be overwhelming. These challenges are not just “baby blues”; they can be signs of postpartum mental health disorders that require care and support.
As a Black postpartum therapist, I’ve worked with women who silently carried pain because they feared being judged, misunderstood, or dismissed. I’m also a survivor of infant loss and personally know the importance of speaking out and releasing the shame. By shedding light on these struggles, we can begin to break the stigma and encourage more Black women to seek the help they deserve.
Understanding Postpartum Mental Health Disorders
Postpartum disorders can look different for every woman, but the most common include:
Postpartum Depression (PPD): Persistent sadness, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty bonding with the baby, and hopelessness.
Postpartum Anxiety (PPA): Intense worry, racing thoughts, restlessness, or panic attacks related to the baby’s safety or motherhood.
Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Intrusive thoughts, often about harm coming to the baby, leading to compulsive behaviors.
Postpartum Psychosis (rare but serious): Hallucinations, delusions, or extreme mood shifts that require immediate medical attention.
These conditions are not signs of weakness. They are real, medical issues that can happen to anyone, regardless of background or preparation.
Why Black Women Are at Higher Risk
Black women often face unique challenges that increase the risk of postpartum disorders. Systemic racism in healthcare means that symptoms are frequently overlooked or minimized. Cultural stigma can make seeking therapy feel shameful. On top of that, many Black mothers are expected to embody the “strong Black woman” role, leaving little room to admit when they’re struggling.
Research also shows that Black women are more likely to experience birth complications and less likely to receive adequate follow-up care. Without proper medical and emotional support, postpartum mental health challenges can intensify.
The Importance of Therapy and Support
Working with a postpartum therapist who understands cultural nuances is crucial. Therapy provides a safe space to process fears, grief, and overwhelm without judgment. It also equips mothers with tools for coping—such as grounding techniques for anxiety, communication skills for relationship stress, and strategies to manage intrusive thoughts.
Group therapy or support groups for mothers can also be powerful. Hearing “you are not alone” from women with similar experiences breaks isolation and shame.
Breaking the Stigma
In the Black community, conversations about mental health are becoming more open, but stigma still lingers. Many women fear that admitting to postpartum struggles means they are “bad mothers.” The truth is the opposite—seeking help is an act of strength and love, both for yourself and your child.
By normalizing therapy and talking openly about postpartum disorders, we can encourage more women to prioritize their mental health.
Practical Ways to Support Postpartum Mental Health
Build a village: Ask for help from trusted friends and family. Don’t try to do everything alone.
Rest when possible: Sleep may be interrupted, but small moments of rest add up.
Nourish your body: Eating balanced meals and staying hydrated helps stabilize mood.
Set boundaries: Limit visits and commitments if they add stress instead of support.
Seek professional help: Don’t wait until symptoms feel unbearable—early support makes healing easier.
Self-Love: Be kind to yourself as a new mom.
Final Thoughts
Postpartum mental health disorders are more common than many realize, and Black women face unique barriers in receiving care. If you are struggling, know that you don’t have to carry this weight alone. Working with a Black postpartum therapist can give you the culturally sensitive support you need to heal.
Motherhood is not meant to break you. With help, it can be a journey of healing, strength, and connection—for both you and your child.
About the author: Kezzia Quintyne-Hilaire is a black female trauma therapist and author of My Self-Love Journal. She uses her expertise in trauma-healing techniques to deliver tailored therapy to enhance the lives of women in New York City. As a woman of color, she is dedicated to offering culturally appropriate therapy and ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for women to embark on their healing journey.
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