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Half of Canadian Mothers Face Postpartum Mental Health Struggles

2/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Statistics Canada's 2024 Parental Experiences Survey found that nearly half of Canadian mothers and birthing parents faced postpartum mental health challenges.
Twenty percent needed mental health care.
Sixty percent reported onset after childbirth.
Barriers include long wait times and lack of inquiries about emotional well-being.
Lucy Barker, a psychiatrist, urged equitable access as Health Canada approved Zuranolone in December 2025.

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Story summary

Statistics Canada's 2024 Parental Experiences Survey found that nearly half of Canadian mothers and birthing parents faced postpartum mental health challenges.
Twenty percent needed mental health care.
Sixty percent reported onset after childbirth.
Barriers include long wait times and lack of inquiries about emotional well-being.
Lucy Barker, a psychiatrist, urged equitable access as Health Canada approved Zuranolone in December 2025.