Perinatal Mental
Health Storytelling
Viewers Guide
You are not alone.
Perinatal mental health is not discussed as openly as it should be. Many parents feel isolated by the intense emotions and sudden life changes of pregnancy, birth, and parenthood. As a result of the Region 6 Perinatal Quality Collaborative's (PQC) Birth Equity assessment in 2023, a dedicated workgroup was established with the aim of using the power of story to normalize perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs).
In 2024, the Region 6 PQC sponsored a workshop for individuals (also known as storytellers) to create, record, and share their personal stories related to Maternal Infant Health, Birth, Postpartum Depression, and more. The following discussion guide was created by the Region 6 Storytelling Workgroup to support the viewing, and reflection, and sharing of the six videos created during the Workshop with the goal of reducing stigma around maternal mental health.
The following videos detail experiences of perinatal mood disorders that viewers may find emotionally distressing. Viewer discretion is advised.
Need Support?
Each story has a content advisory to alert audiences about the subject matter discussed. If you experience distress at any point, we encourage you to take the necessary steps protect your mental health. Many stories go into detail about perinatal mental health experiences including, but not limited to, postpartum depression, anxiety disorders, and grieving infant loss. We encourage you to step away from the content if you need to. If you need support, please seek out trusted friend, family member or professional to help you. This resource exists for you to revisit it. Make whatever choice is right for you.
Need Support?
Michigan 2-1-1
mi211.org
Dial 2-1-1; or text your zip code to 8982
Region 6 Perinatal Quality Collaborative www.region6pqc.org/resources
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
1-833-TLC-MAMA (or 1-833-852- 6262)
Postpartum Support International Hotline
1-800-944-4PPD (or 1-800-944-4773)