Walk the Blue Dot for Maternal Mental Health

I was thrilled to be asked by Robyn, the platform supporting aspiring, expecting, and new parents during their paths to parenthood, to lead a fundraiser for 2020 Mom’s The Blue Dot Project this month!

The purpose of The Blue Dot Project is to raise awareness of maternal mental health disorders, combat stigma and shame, and spread solidarity and support. The Project is an initiative of 2020 Mom, a national organization whose mission is to close gaps in maternal mental health care.

In the weeks leading up to the 2.1 mile walk I organized in my town outside of New York City, I collaborated with Tara of Modern Mom Probs on Instagram and promoted the fundraiser on Facebook. I was ultimately able to raise more than $2,590 — more than 12 times my initial goal! — with the generous support of my friends and family.

Many members of my supportive community joined me on the walk as well. I am so grateful to my mom friends (and their kids & spouses too!) who showed up to walk with me on October 9 and who continue to show up for me emotionally. Walking with other mamas throughout the pandemic has helped improve my own mental health, so it was especially significant to walk together in support of maternal mental health. Please reach out if you feel like you are lacking a community — join ours!

Lauren A. Tetenbaum, LMSW, JD, PMH-C. She is certified in maternal mental health by the Seleni Institute and Postpartum Support International. Through counseling and consulting, Lauren provides support and advocacy to working, new, and all parents.