Understanding the Unique Mental Health Struggles of Women Veterans After Pregnancy
When it comes to mental health after pregnancy, women veterans are facing some unique and intense challenges. Postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) like postpartum depression (PPD), postpartum anxiety (PPA), and postpartum PTSD (PPPTSD) are common, yet the rates among women veterans appear even higher than those among civilian women. In a recent study, researchers explored why PMADs are so prevalent in female veterans and looked at the specific factors that make military servicewomen particularly vulnerable.
What Are PMADs?
PMADs cover a range of mental health issues that can arise during pregnancy or in the postpartum period. They include PPD, PPA, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and even postpartum psychosis. For many women, these conditions go undiagnosed, which is troubling given that untreated PMADs can have serious, even life-threatening, effects. It’s estimated that around 15–21% of women experience at least one PMAD, which can mean anything from feelings of extreme anxiety to suicidal thoughts. Unfortunately, PMADs can make new mothers feel isolated, ashamed, and uncertain about seeking help.
How Common Are PMADs Among Women Veterans?
According to the study, women veterans reported much higher rates of PPD (26%) compared to the general population rate of about 13%. The rates of PPA and PPPTSD among veterans were comparable to civilian figures, but what stood out was that over 30% of veteran participants reported being diagnosed with more than one PMAD. The findings suggest that the overlapping diagnoses are more common for veterans, indicating that the unique stressors faced during military service might compound their mental health challenges.
Why Are Women Veterans More at Risk?
So, what puts these women at higher risk? For many, it’s not just one factor but a combination of experiences, often tied to their time in the military. The study found several significant risk factors:
Previous Mental Health Diagnoses: Women who already had mental health challenges before pregnancy, such as depression or PTSD, are more likely to develop PMADs.
Military-Specific Stressors: Experiences such as deployments, traumatic events, or sexual assault during service increase the risk.
Timing of Pregnancy During Service: Many women veterans had their last pregnancy while actively serving, adding another layer of stress. Balancing the demands of military service with pregnancy and postpartum recovery can be challenging and leave little room for mental health care.
The Impact on Families and What Can Be Done
PMADs don’t just affect mothers; they can also impact children, partners, and the entire family. Recognizing this, there’s a growing call for better screening and support for new moms, especially those at higher risk. In particular, consistent screening for PPD and other PMADs can help ensure mothers receive the support they need sooner rather than later.
Breaking the Silence and Taking Action
In order to make a difference, we need to start by raising awareness and talking about these challenges openly. PMADs can be isolating, but with greater awareness and access to resources, more women can feel empowered to seek help. Military women, in particular, should be made aware that support is available and that experiencing PMADs doesn’t have to mean struggling alone.
For friends, family, and communities, supporting military moms means understanding the unique pressures they face and advocating for improved mental health resources. With continued research and greater access to care, we can help reduce the stigma around postpartum mental health and ensure that every new mom, veteran or not, gets the help she needs.