Bill
Bill > AJR239
summary
Introduced
11/24/2025
11/24/2025
In Committee
11/24/2025
11/24/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
01/12/2026
01/12/2026
Introduced Session
2024-2025 Regular Session
Bill Summary
This joint resolution designates May of each year as "Maternal Mental Health Month" in New Jersey. Maternal mental health, also known as perinatal mental health, refers to mental health during pregnancy and up to two years after pregnancy. Maternal or perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are often overlooked and unspoken, and those affected may feel shame or a need to hide it. Despite the prevalence of maternal mood and anxiety disorders, with up to 1 in 5 women during the pregnancy and post pregnancy period many affected downplay or hide their symptoms. Maternal mental health is crucial to the wellbeing of both the mother and child as left untreated and all maternal mental conditions are treatable if identified with the right support. New Jersey has resources to support maternal mental health and the recognition of this topic may help to connect those affected to those resources.
AI Summary
This joint resolution designates May as "Maternal Mental Health Month" in New Jersey to raise awareness about perinatal mental health, which encompasses mental health during pregnancy and up to two years after childbirth. The resolution highlights that perinatal mood and anxiety disorders affect up to one in five women, with factors like poverty, stress, and history of mental illness increasing the risk of developing these conditions. Recognizing that maternal mental health disorders can significantly impact both mothers and children if left untreated—potentially leading to serious consequences like increased suicide risk or child malnutrition—the resolution aims to reduce stigma and encourage women to seek help. The World Health Organization has prioritized supporting maternal mental health, and the resolution notes that New Jersey's Department of Health already has resources available, such as a dedicated health line and the Maternal and Child Health Consortia. By officially designating May as Maternal Mental Health Month, the resolution seeks to increase understanding, reduce shame, and connect affected women with appropriate support and treatment options.
Committee Categories
Government Affairs
Sponsors (3)
Last Action
Introduced, Referred to Assembly Community Development and Women's Affairs Committee (on 11/24/2025)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/AJR239 |
| BillText | https://pub.njleg.gov/Bills/2024/AJR/239_I1.HTM |
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