Study Reveals Decline in Mental Health Among U.S. Mothers

A new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine highlights a significant and ongoing decline in mental health among U.S. mothers—dropping from 38% reporting “excellent” mental health in 2016 to just 26% in 2023.

Conducted by researchers at Columbia University and the University of Michigan, the study analyzed data from nearly 200,000 mothers and found the downturn began even before the COVID-19 pandemic. Public health experts warn this trend poses a wider risk, as maternal mental health is closely linked to children’s developmental outcomes. These findings underscore the urgent need for sustained, systemic public health strategies that support maternal well-being beyond pregnancy and postpartum care. Read more from The Hill here.