Maternal mental health and art therapy:

This research examines the role of art therapy in supporting maternal mental health during the perinatal and postpartum time periods in the United States, where societal pressures and the underrepresentation of pregnancy-related mental health challenges are prevalent. Despite the glamorization of pregnancy on social media, many women experience a wide range of difficult emotions and symptoms that can lead to anxiety or mood disorders, with potentially adverse effects on both maternal and infant health. Recent statistics indicate that one in five women experience maternal mental health disorders during pregnancy, yet a staggering 80% never have their mental health status checked by healthcare providers (Weiner, 2023; Zuloaga, 2023). This research introduces and evaluates a novel art therapy curriculum tailored to this demographic, aiming to fill the gap in mental health care by providing early intervention and support. By integrating art therapy into standard care practices, the research seeks to highlight its efficacy in alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression and enhancing overall maternal well-being. The findings suggest that art therapy offers a valuable complement to existing health services, advocating for its broader implementation to improve the mental health outcomes for mothers during these transformative stages of motherhood.