A Gap Analysis in Therapeutic Services for Birthing Individuals with Perinatal Mental Health Disorders

This article calls attention to a gap in services to address the needs of birthing individuals diagnosed with perinatal mental health conditions (PMHs) in New York State (NYS). We analyzed secondary birth data and surveyed MSW programs in NYS. Results indicate a gap in the availability of masters-prepared social workers to provide care for pregnant persons and their partners. In a three-year period in Syracuse (2017–2019), nearly one-third (n = 1,684, 30.1%) of persons delivering a baby reported depression during pregnancy. Among prenatal patients who reported being “very depressed,” 44.5% had no documented referral for treatment. Of the 21 MSW programs in NYS, we found only two (9.5%) have specific coursework on PMH conditions. We recommend that MSW curricula be enhanced to reflect the perinatal mental health needs of birthing individuals and their families.