Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to behavioral health issues, including depression and substance misuse. According to American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), depression is the most common mental health disorder experienced during pregnancy, with estimates that 14% to 23% of women experience perinatal depression. Leaders in Louisiana discuss how they’re providing more support for women across the span of their reproductive life, and the challenges they still face on this episode. The National Council for Behavioral Health also outlines how states can provide integrated systems of care for pregnant women.

Guests: 

• Brie Reimann, MPA, Assistant Vice President, Integrated Health Solutions, National Council for Behavioral Health
• Rebekah Gee, MD, Secretary, Louisiana Department of Health
• Amy Zapata, MPH, Director, Bureau of Family Health, Louisiana Department of Health

 

Resources:

• ASTHOBrief: State Approaches for Promoting Family-Centered Care for Pregnant and Postpartum Women with Substance Use Disorders http://www.astho.org/ASTHOBriefs/State-Approaches-Promoting-Family-Centered-Care-Pregnant-Postpartum-Women-with-SUD/
• ASTHOBrief: Stigma Reinforces Barriers to Care for Pregnant and Postpartum Women with Substance Use Disorder http://www.astho.org/ASTHOBriefs/Stigma-Reinforces-Barriers-to-Care-for-Pregnant-and-Postpartum-Women-with-Substance-Use-Disorder/