Arkansans for Improving Maternal Health (AIM) and Doula Alliance of Arkansas (DA-AR) Recognize National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

‍LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (July 30, 2025) - This July, Arkansans for Improving Maternal Health (AIM) and the Doula Alliance of Arkansas joined efforts to recognize Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, to address the critical mental health needs of Arkansas mothers and raise awareness of the disproportional impacts on minority communities.

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“National data reports show that maternal health outcomes vary significantly across different racial and socioeconomic populations, and the 2024 March of Dimes report confirmed that Arkansas reflects the same troubling patterns. We believe every Arkansas mother deserves access to quality mental health care, regardless of her background, income or zip code,” said AIM’s Executive Director Ashley Bearden Campbell. “It’s critical to ensure mothers have the support they need to thrive during one of the most vulnerable times in their lives. This means ensuring mothers are seen, heard and supported through every stage of their journey.”

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“Welcoming a new life is a profoundly beautiful experience, and one that brings immense emotions and change. Amid the joy of parenthood, many also face significant mental health challenges during the postpartum period. That’s where doulas come in,” Lori Ross, Executive Director of the Doula Alliance of Arkansas, added. “Mental health is foundational to maternal health. When we invest in comprehensive mental health services and support for mothers, we invest in the well-being of all of our Arkansas families.”

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As the federal budget bill moves through Congress, AIM and DA-AR emphasize the importance of preserving funding for programs that effectively serve mothers and families statewide. The organizations recognize that maintaining robust healthcare coverage is essential for mothers’ access to mental health services, prenatal care and postpartum support. During the July observance, they also highlighted how the summer months often present childcare challenges that place additional strain on working mothers. A comprehensive support system that addresses the full spectrum of challenges Arkansas mothers face is essential for building healthier families and communities. 

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AIM and DA-AR are committed to working alongside community organizations and advocates who are leading efforts to expand access to mental health services, enhance provider training, strengthen services in underserved areas and ensure continued coverage for mental health needs.

Arkansas mothers seeking mental health support are encouraged to call or text 988 for immediate crisis support or call 911 for emergencies. Additional resources are available through the National Alliance on Mental Illness - Arkansas Chapter at namiarkansas.org. Help is available, and there are people ready to support you through whatever challenges you may be facing.

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About AIM:

Arkansans for Improving Maternal Health (AIM) is a non-profit organization that strives to raise public awareness, cultivate champions for change and spur action around the issue of maternal health in Arkansas. The organization advocates for policies to address existing gaps in maternal health care – before, during and after pregnancy – and create an environment where every mother and baby have the opportunity to thrive. AIM believes that strengthening maternal health care in Arkansas will have long-term benefits for Arkansas families, communities and the economy. For more information, visit AIMforArkansas.org.

About the Doula Alliance of Arkansas:

The Doula Alliance of Arkansas is dedicated to improving maternal health outcomes by advocating for the professionalization of doulas, providing education opportunities for doulas and the public and fostering intentional collaboration with the medical community. The Alliance aims to increase the number of certified doulas and ensure their services are recognized and reimbursed by healthcare payers. Learn more at doulaallianceofar.org.

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