Postpartum Support International launches Connect App for perinatal mental health

Postpartum Support International (PSI), which provides support and free resources to women with perinatal mental health disorders (PMHD), announced it launched a new app called Connect by PSI. 

The Connect app allows users to access PSI’s helpline and crisis assistance, a supportive community made up of fellow patients and medical professionals, and a library of PMHD resources. Helpline and crisis numbers are available in English and Spanish. 

“We know the people who need us most often have very little time to care for their own needs, so we are always looking for ways to welcome them into our community,” Wendy Davis, executive director of Postpartum Support International, said in a statement.  

“This app embodies our commitment to providing accessible, stigma-free support for individuals navigating the mental health challenges surrounding pregnancy, postpartum, and/or loss. With Connect by PSI, we want to educate, empower, and uplift those affected by perinatal mental health disorders and foster a sense of community on their journey to healing.”

THE LARGER TREND

One in five women and one in 10 men experience anxiety or depression in the perinatal period, which includes pregnancy and 12 months postpartum. However, researchers believe the numbers may be even higher, with estimates relaying that 50% of women suffering from postpartum depression do not report it. 

Women of color are at a higher risk for experiencing perinatal mental health disorders and are less likely to receive care. 

In 2023, PSI and UMass Chan Medical School partnered for a perinatal mental health equity study. The study was awarded a grant from the Patient Centered Outcomes Institute and examines peer support programs at 32 OB clinics. The study began in January of 2024. 

Other companies focused on providing maternal digital health solutions include Wildflower Health and Maven Clinic. 

Wildflower Health is a digital health platform that connects patients to benefits and resources. In 2018, the company acquired Circle Women’s Health Platform, which was spun out of the Providence St. Joseph Health Systems incubator. 

The value-based health provider locked down $26 million in funding in 2022 with investment from TT Capital Partners, Providence Ventures, Health Enterprise Partners and Echo Health Ventures. The company planned to use the funds to build its internal team and to expand operations nationwide. 

Women’s health platform Maven Clinic announced in 2022 that it secured $90 million in Series E funding with support from investors General Catalyst, CVS Health Ventures and Intermountain Ventures. 

In 2023, the company acquired fellow virtual women’s health platform Naytal, which Maven Clinic stated would allow it to expand into the European market.  

Maven Clinic partnered with autoimmune-focused WellTheory in January. The partnership allows Maven Clinic patients access to nutrition and lifestyle coaching from WellTheory clinicians.