As Mental Health Awareness Month approaches, families across Louisiana are being encouraged to recognize the importance of maternal mental health and the role it plays in overall well-being.
Motherhood brings many joys, but it can also come with stress, anxiety, and depression. Research shows that 1 in 5 women experience a mental health condition, and many do not receive care due to stigma, time constraints, or difficulty accessing services.
“Too often, mothers put their own well-being last,” said Dr. Dana Lawson, Senior Vice President of Population Health and Clinical Operations at Louisiana Healthcare Connections. “We want moms to know they are not alone. Taking care of your mental health is essential for you and your family.”
Simple actions can help support maternal mental health and create stronger support systems for mothers. Encouraging time for rest, connecting moms to support networks, and increasing awareness of available resources all play a role in improving outcomes.
Access to care is also critical. Services such as telehealth, behavioral health programs, and community-based support can help mothers receive care in ways that fit their daily lives. These resources support a range of needs, including anxiety, depression, and postpartum care.
Louisiana Healthcare Connections continues to focus on reducing barriers to mental health care by expanding access to these services and connecting mothers with the support they need at every stage of motherhood.
“As we celebrate Mother’s Day, it is important to recognize that moms need more than appreciation. They need support, understanding, and access to care,” said Jamie Schlottman, CEO and Plan President of Louisiana Healthcare Connections. “When moms are mentally healthy, families and communities thrive.”
By raising awareness and expanding access to care, these efforts help ensure that mothers across Louisiana have the resources and support needed to care for themselves and their families.