Jessica Kingsley Publishers My Black Motherhood: Mental Health, Stigma, Racism and the System

Where are the safe spaces for Black mums? Like many new mums, Sandra Igwe developed postnatal anxiety and depression, but found she was stereotyped and dismissed. Only by creating a community who 'got it' did she find empowerment and joy. Sandra speaks out in the failings in the support that is meant to reach all mothers; but excludes Black women. Joyful. Graceful. Blessed. Strong. Anxious. Depressed. Stigmatised. Stereotyped.What happens when motherhood isn't what you expected - and when you reach out for support, you are met with judgment and prejudice? Sandra Igwe shares her journey as a young Black mother, coping with sleepless nights, anxiety and loneliness after the birth of her first daughter. Burdened by cultural expectations of the 'good mother' and the 'strong Black woman' trope, her mental health struggles became an uphill battle. Black women are at higher risk of developing postnatal depression but are the least likely to be identified as depressed. Sharing the voices of other mothers, Sandra examines how culture, racism, stigma and a lack of trust in services prevent women getting the help they need. Breaking open the conversation on motherhood, race, and mental health, she demands that Black women are listened to, believed, and understood. Autorid: Sandra Igwe