Louisiana moms encouraged to make mental health a priority

BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — A Louisiana health insurance agency is shining a light on the importance of maternal mental health as Mother’s Day approaches.

Research shows that one in five women experiences a mental health condition, with many going untreated due to stigma, lack of time, or difficulty accessing care.

“Moms are seen as the backbone of the family,” said Dr. Dana Lawson, senior vice president of Population Health and Clinical Operations at Louisiana Healthcare Connections (LHC). “When mom isn’t right, no one else is right.”

Lawson said it’s important for families to create safe spaces for moms to express how they’re feeling. She said the smallest acts go a long way.

Suggestions from LHC to support maternal mental health:

• Encourage moms to take breaks and practice self-care.
• Support policies that improve access to mental health services for women.
• Connect mothers with professional resources, support groups, and community networks.
• Share personal stories to help break the stigma around maternal mental health.

Click here for more information and available services.

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