As survivors of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), we can attest to the devastation that these common illnesses cause. Due to our experiences, we have become staunch advocates for raising awareness about maternal mental health... which is so often overlooked.

Through Mental Health America (MHA) of Georgia's signature program, Project Healthy Moms (PHM), we have, for five years, increased awareness, identification, treatment, and support of women dealing with maternal mental health issues such as postpartum depression, PTSD, and psychosis, while also reducing the stigma associated with them. MHA of Georgia has been on the forefront in bringing the issue of maternal mental illness to the public in Georgia, as well as nationally, through our work with National Mental Health America and the National Institute of Mental Health. Through PHM, support for thousands of Georgia's women is offered in both English and Spanish - on the phone or through email. 

This year, for the first time, Georgians recognized Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week, and MHA of Georgia played a key role by educating State legislators when Sarah Schwartz, Executive Director of the organization, spoke about her personal struggles with antepartum and postpartum depression and anxiety before Georgia's Health and Human Services Committee. We also offered provider and student education on the illnesses as well as screening methods and important referral information. PHM is a crucial program and is helping to change the lives of many women facing mental health challenges surrounding pregnancy and the postpartum period. 

We are grateful for your past contributions that directly impacted the vital work of MHA of Georgia and the 1 in 4 Georgians who are affected by a diagnosable mental illness each year and the millions more who are indirectly affected. 

Visit www.mhageorgia.org, like us on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter to see how our programs are continuing to work within Georgia to accomplish our mission. Programs such as the RESPECT Institute, Mental Health First Aid, Youth Mental Health First Aid, Kids on the Block, and our Advocacy and Public Policy program have reached across Georgia to change the way people think about mental illness as well as change the lives of those affected by it.

If there was ever a time to donate....it is now!   The urgent need for MHA of Georgia's expertise has been recognized by the Realan Foundation with a generous match of all gifts up to $7,500.  With this match, your gift will go even further. Please join us and the Realan Foundation by making a donation today.  Thank you.

Together we can make a difference!  Together we can save lives!

Sincerely,

   Sarah                               Amber                       Sonia

 Sarah Schwartz                        Amber Koter-Puline                    Sonia Davis