Advocacy and Support for Maternal Mental Health
By: Kayla LaMore | PILLARS OF WELLNESS
Many of us are often in search of ways to be more involved in the communities we are passionate about. We look for opportunities like the next walk, fundraiser, or community support day to participate in. This year, for maternal mental health, there are a few ways you can get involved whether it be on a national or local scale.
In the month of March, there is a national event that takes place every year centered around advocating for continued funding for maternal mental health programs. On March 10th, the Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance (MMHLA) organizes a day known as the National Day of Action for Maternal Mental Health. This day focuses primarily on advancing public policy and increasing support for maternal mental health programs.
This once-a-year event consists of individuals across the nation meeting virtually with federally elected officials to discuss the continuation of funding for maternal mental health programs. MMHLA focuses on continued funding for the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, which provides a 24/7 voice and text line offering mothers and families resources and support. They also advocate for the Maternal Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders Program, which is centered around educating, consulting, and providing resources to providers who support mothers.
LINKS:
Another national organization you may find yourself interested in getting involved with is Postpartum Support International (PSI). PSI focuses on increasing public and professional awareness of the emotional changes women experience during pregnancy and the postpartum period. While PSI’s headquarters are located in Portland, Oregon, they have members all over the world, with volunteer coordinators in every state and in more than 36 countries.
PSI hosts an annual event called The Climb during the summer and fall, which is one of the largest events dedicated to raising funds and awareness for perinatal mental health disorders. This is a wonderful opportunity to get involved in the maternal mental health community and serve as a connecting point for parents, professionals, and support services. Another way to get involved with PSI is through volunteering. You can join their volunteer base in a variety of ways, including participating in their HelpLine, becoming a support coordinator, joining their peer mentor program, or facilitating an online support group. Because PSI offers so many forms of support to mothers in need, there are numerous opportunities for involvement.
LINKS:
- https://postpartum.net/
- https://postpartum.net/join-us/theclimb/
- https://postpartum.net/join-us/volunteer/
If you are interested in getting involved on a smaller scale and making a more direct impact within your community, there is a local organization in the Northwest Indiana area you may consider. While this involvement would be on a smaller scale, the impact is still noteworthy.
The Northwest Indiana Center for Maternal Wellness is a non-profit organization that focuses on offering education, peer support, and resources for mothers and families struggling with perinatal and postpartum mental health disorders. The organization held its first annual Hope Walk on October 4th, 2025, advocating for maternal mental health and supporting mothers in the Northwest Indiana area. Their next Hope Walk is scheduled to take place on October 3rd, 2026. If you are interested in getting involved sooner, the Center also offers peer support services, including one-on-one mentoring and peer support groups as well as they are always looking for volunteers.
LINKS:
- https://www.nwimaternalwellness.com/
- https://www.nwimaternalwellness.com/newsletter
- https://www.nwimaternalwellness.com/single-post/hope-walk-2025
Although only three organizations are listed here, there are countless ways to support maternal mental health. Whether your involvement looks like attending a walk, volunteering your time, or simply learning more, every step makes a difference. Taking time to explore what exists in your own community can be the first step toward meaningful involvement and connection.
If you or someone you know could benefit from support, Pillars of Wellness is here to help. We have dozens of trained clinicians ready to support you, so please visit pillarsinspires.com or call (219) 323-3311 for more information or to schedule an intake. Most insurances are accepted.