Dear Mama: A Block Party for Black Maternal Mental Health

The ALLICE Collective is partnering with Jessica Ramos, LCSW, PMH-C, maternal mental health expert and CEO of J Soulae Therapy, PLLC to bring Dear Mama: A Block Party for Black Maternal Mental Health to The Lawson Academy, located in the historic neighborhood of Third Ward, a known “maternal mortality hotspot,” on Saturday, July 13, 2024 starting at 10:00am.

Come enjoy good music, delicious food, interactive workshops, Q & A panels, family-friendly activities, and a variety of vendors offering products and services to support your mental well-being. Connect with your community and other mamas in a safe and welcoming environment, and take some time for yourself to relax and recharge.

Whether you're a new mom, experienced mom, soon-to-be mom, or anyone that is a part of a mom's support system, this block party is for you! Let's come together to show our support for Black maternal mental health and create a community of strong, empowered mamas.

We can't wait to see you there!

Learn more at https://www.dearmamahtx.com

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Why Is Black Maternal Mental Health Important?

Black maternal mental health is a critical public health concern, as Black women face disproportionate rates of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) compared to their white counterparts. These mental health conditions not only impact the well-being of the mother but also have adverse effects on infant health outcomes and family dynamics. According to a fact sheet published by the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance (MMHLA) in July 2023, mental health is the leading cause of maternal death, and Black women experience maternal deaths at 2-3 times the rate of white women. Additionally, single Black mothers are six times more likely to experience depressive symptoms. Despite the existence of interventions to address maternal mental health, Black women continue to face barriers in accessing and engaging with these services, exacerbating existing disparities.

What to expect?

• maternal mental health screenings

• panel discussions and Q & A’s with licensed physicians, mental health clinicians, birthing experts, community mental health advocates, and local community leaders
• educational workshops and wellness activities for Black fathers
• group yoga, meditation, healing circles, and other wellness activities
• education on mental health symptoms and coping strategies
• 50 mental health, wellness, and community resource vendors
• food
• live entertainment
• art activities
• post-partum care packages
• SWAG bags for the first 200 registered mothers who arrive
• and more!