For moms struggling with postpartum depression, CT hotline is a lifeline

A hotline in Connecticut is providing crucial support to new mothers struggling with postpartum depression. The ACCESS Mental Health and Substance Use for Moms hotline was established in 2023 and is funded by the state of Connecticut through the next two years. The hotline is staffed by superspecialists in postpartum mental health, including Dr. Ariadna Forray, a reproductive psychiatrist at the Yale School of Medicine. Forray is working to dismantle the narrative surrounding social expectations around pregnancy, birthing, and motherhood. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 8 women experience postpartum depression after giving birth. Symptoms can include sadness, anxiety, guilt, worthlessness, and suicidal ideation. Left untreated, it poses serious risk to mother and child. Connecticut is giving more front-line pregnancy and postpartum health care providers access to postpartum mental health care in response to the shortage of providers in the state. The hotline has seen a significant increase in the number of moms served, from 67 in the first year to 368 in 2025. One mother, Emily Fields, credits the hotline with helping her cope with postpartum depression after the birth of her daughter, Emma. Fields was unable to sleep, struggled to eat, and felt anxious and guilty. She called the hotline and received support and guidance from the specialists. With their help, Fields was able to find happiness and connect with her daughter again.