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My Black Motherhood Mental Health, Stigma, Racism and the System Sandra Igwe A passionate first-hand account of what it is like being a Black mother coping with postnatal anxiety and depression – and how Black women are let down when they are most vulnerable.
About the Author Sandra Igwe is the Founder of The Motherhood Group, a platform and safe space to support the Black motherhood experience, through events, workshops, peer-to-peer support, collaborative projects, training, advocacy and campaigning. Sandra is co-chair of the National Inquiry into Racial Injustice in Maternity Care and a trustee of Birthrights charity.
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.
‘Reading this book is like listening to a passionate, relatable, sister friend who can help you fight your corner. Thank you, Sandra, for sharing these deeply affecting stories and for stirring up ‘good trouble’ on behalf of Black mothers everywhere.’ Uju Asika, author of Bringing Up Race: How To Raise a Kind Child in a Prejudiced World
‘Sandra’s book gives a wonderfully candid insight into the experiences and obstacles faced by Black mums all over the country. It’s one that all health professionals need have on their bookshelves.’ Marley Hall, Midwife, Speaker and Content Creator www.midwifemarley.com
Jun 2022 | £12.99 | 224pp | PB | ISBN-9781839970085 Audiobook also available
