Whereas 1 in 5 women, and 1 in 3 medically underserved women, experience a maternal mental health condition each year, impacting an estimated 800,000 American families;

Whereas over 1/3 of female active duty servicemembers and military spouses, and almost 2/3 of retirees, are diagnosed with a maternal mental health condition during the perinatal period;

Whereas maternal mental health conditions are among the most common health conditions during the perinatal period, including anxiety, substance use disorder, and depression;

Whereas 22.5 percent of pregnancy-related deaths were caused by a mental health condition, of which approximately 1/3 of mothers died by suicide and 2/3 by overdose;

Whereas 87 percent of pregnancy-related deaths (and 100 percent of deaths by suicide and overdose) are preventable;

Whereas maternal mental health conditions increase the risk of infant mortality, preterm birth, and low birth weight, and impede infant growth and development;

Whereas 75 percent of mothers with a maternal mental health condition never receive treatment;

Whereas untreated maternal mental health conditions cost the United States economy $14,200,000,000 each year due to productivity loss, preterm births, child behavioral and developmental costs, and other health costs;

Whereas maternal mental health conditions during the prenatal and perinatal periods are easily treatable with increased access to risk assessments, regular screening, and other early intervention mechanisms; and

Whereas more research and funding are needed to build upon evidence-based best practices for improved screening and treatment efforts, expand access to and quality of treatment and prevention services, and improve health outcomes for mothers, infants, and communities: Now, therefore, be it