Why does it take years for mothers to get the support we already know they need?

We’ve had the data.
We’ve had the stories.
We’ve had the heartbreak. 

In this episode, maternal health advocate Jessie Colbert breaks down how policy shapes maternal mental health — and what we can actually do about it.

Jessie and I talk about:

• what “perinatal mental health” actually means 
• why postpartum depression is only part of the story
• how policy quietly shapes the care mothers receive
• what you can actually do (yes, you)

This is part motherhood, part civics lesson, part reality check.

If you’ve ever wondered why the system feels slow… this one’s for you.

About Jessie: 

Jessie Colbert is the Coordinator of the Massachusetts Mind the Gap Coalition, a group of health care organizations, nonprofits, community-based organizations, mental health and maternity care providers, survivors of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) and/or pregnancy and infant loss and other
advocates working to improve state policies impacting perinatal mental health.

 Under Jessie’s leadership, Massachusetts Mind the Gap was successful in passing the Moms Matter Act – legislation investing in community-based organizations supporting perinatal mental health, particularly in historically marginalized communities – as part of the state’s 2024 omnibus maternal health law.

Previously, Jessie was the Founder and Executive Director of the Mass. PPD Fund, a nonprofit focused on improving communities’ capacity to address PMADs through education, training, and advocacy. She has also worked in nonprofit fundraising, and was the first Director of the Ellen Story Special Legislative Commission on Postpartum Depression, now a national model.

Jessie is the mom of three kids in college, high school, and elementary school. Although she didn't go through PMADs herself, she brings lived experience as a mom and with other mental health challenges
to her work.

Resources: 

Massachusetts Mind the Gap Coalition

Postpartum Support International, including Perinatal Mental Health 101

Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance

National MMH hotline: 1-833-TLC-MAMA

Bay State Birth Coalition

PSI’s postpartum psychosis discussion tool

Find your legislator MA

MSPCC

Further Forward: Honest Conversations on the Art of Becoming, is hosted by Ashley Mitchell.

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