Turning Up the Volume on Maternal Mental Health

As a motherhood photographer who has captured the intimate journeys of over 20 breastfeeding mothers, Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week holds a special place in my heart. Today, I’m sharing insights from behind the lens on why this week matters for every mother.

What is Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week?

Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week (May 5-11, 2025) is a dedicated time to open conversations about mental wellbeing before, during, and after pregnancy. This year’s theme is “Your Voice, Your Strength” and celebrates the power found in sharing our authentic maternal experiences.

Each day of the week shines light on different aspects of maternal mental health, creating space for stories that often remain untold.

The Silent Struggles Behind the Image of Motherhood

In my London studio over the past 14 years, I’ve witnessed countless mothers navigate the complex emotions of their journey. Through my breastfeeding photography project, these experiences have been brought into focus with striking clarity.

What my camera captures goes beyond the physical act of nursing:

• The mother who whispered “this isn’t what I expected” as she positioned her baby
• The tears that fell when someone finally acknowledged her struggle
• The relief that washed over faces when admitting “I need help” for the first time

These moments reveal the truth about motherhood, it’s beautiful and raw, empowering and overwhelming, often simultaneously.

Why Maternal Mental Health Matters

The statistics speak volumes:

• 1 in 5 women experience mental health challenges during pregnancy or the first year after birth
• Many more struggle silently, believing their feelings are simply “part of motherhood”
• Nearly one-third of new mothers aren’t aware that healthcare providers can offer mental health support
• More than 1 in 4 mothers experiencing mental health difficulties avoid seeking help due to fear of judgment
• Almost 20% report that healthcare professionals never inquired about their mental wellbeing
• Nearly a quarter feel their emotional struggles aren’t important enough to mention to medical providers

Behind these statistics are real women—each with unique stories, challenges, and strengths. Too many mothers suffer in silence, believing they should be able to cope or fearing judgment if they speak up.

Related article: The Postpartum Recovery Tips No One Talks About—But Should

Finding Your Voice Through Shared Experiences

My breastfeeding photography project taught me something profound: when one mother shares her truth, she creates permission for others to do the same.

In photograph after photograph, I witnessed vulnerability transform into power. It’s precisely what this awareness week celebrates, that our collective strength begins when we dare to speak our truths aloud.

Creating Safe Spaces for Maternal Stories

As a photographer, I create space for stories.
As a woman, I hold them carefully.
As a community, we transform them into understanding and support.

This week is about turning up the volume:

• On your truth
• On your story
• On your strength

Your voice matters. And it’s strong, even when it trembles.

How to Honour Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week

Whether you’re a new mother, expecting, or supporting someone on their maternal journey, here are ways to participate:

1. Share your story – Even the parts that feel messy or imperfect
2. Listen without judgment – Sometimes the greatest gift is being truly heard
3. Connect with resources – From local support groups to professional help
4. Normalize asking for help – It’s not weakness; it’s wisdom
5. Check on the mothers in your life – A simple message can make all the difference

Nurturing Your Mental Wellbeing Through Motherhood

Self-care isn’t selfish, it’s essential for maternal mental health from pregnancy through all stages of motherhood:

1. Create a flexible routine: Establish gentle structure in your days that accommodates your changing needs and your child’s. Even small predictable moments can provide emotional stability when everything else feels chaotic.
2. Prioritise mind and body connection: Practice mindfulness by tuning into your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Remember that physical wellbeing—movement that feels good, nourishing foods, and prioritizing rest whenever possible—directly supports mental health.
3. Find trusted information sources: Social media can amplify anxiety with conflicting advice and idealized images. Choose 1-2 reliable resources for parenting information and consider limiting exposure to content that triggers comparison or inadequacy.
4. Make asking for help a practice: Before you reach your breaking point, identify small ways others can support you. Whether it’s your partner taking the early morning feed, a friend dropping off a meal, or a professional providing guidance, accepting help strengthens rather than diminishes your motherhood journey.

Looking Forward: The Breastfeeding Stories Book

Soon, the powerful breastfeeding stories I’ve had the privilege to document will be collected in a book, a testament to maternal vulnerability, resilience, and strength. Each image and story stands as proof that we’re never truly alone in our experiences.

Your Reminder This Week

If you’ve been holding something in, this is your reminder:

• You’re allowed to speak it
• You’re allowed to ask for help
• You’re allowed to be held too

Your voice. Your strength. Your motherhood.

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Are you celebrating Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or simply leave a heart if you’re not ready for words yet.

Photography by Valentina specialises in authentic motherhood photography in London, capturing the raw beauty of maternal journeys. To book a session or learn more about the upcoming breastfeeding stories book, visit the website https://photographybyvalentina.com or connect on Instagram.

Related article: Celebrating Motherhood with Timeless Photos