Medina Today

The Ohio House of Representatives has passed House Concurrent Resolution 16, a measure aimed at raising awareness about perinatal mental health. The resolution was announced by its sponsor, State Representative Sharon Ray from Wadsworth.

Ray expressed her hopes for the resolution, stating, "My hope is that this resolution will draw attention to the importance of mental health for Ohio’s new and expecting mothers." She emphasized the critical nature of this issue and the need for support from healthcare providers, family members, and society as a whole.

Statistics highlight the prevalence of mood disturbances among mothers, with approximately 85% experiencing some form. Postpartum psychosis affects between one and two per 1,000 births. Furthermore, suicide is identified as a leading cause of maternal mortality, accounting for about 20% of postpartum deaths.

The resolution will now proceed to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.