Maternal Mental Health Now

Repost from ✨ Apply Now ➡️ Storyectomy* Baby Bumps
Applications close November 18, 2024

Under the umbrella of Storyectomy*, Baby Bumps is a community-driven mental health initiative using the art of storytelling and comedy to bring light, love, and healing to those affected by mental health conditions during their journey to parenthood (e.g. postpartum depression, anxiety, OCD, psychosis, and beyond).

✨ The Crow is partnering with on this innovative and supportive project to give maternal mental health condition survivors, birth professionals, and family members the space to share and connect.

Participants will be provided with the structure and guidance to tell their stories in a personal and effective way through ’s teachings as a comedic storyteller. This FREE* six-week course will culminate with a final storytelling show featuring program participants alongside professional comedians that have also been affected by perinatal mental health conditions.

🗓️ Classes run for 6 consecutive Thursdays 7-10pm, January 9th-February 13th
🎟️ Final Show: February 15, 2025
📍 at Bergamot Station Arts Center
🔗 Link in bio

You’re invited to our upcoming live webinar, “A Postpartum State of Mind: Supporting Military Families During Pregnancy and Postpartum,” on Thursday, November 14, 2024, from 12 PM to 1:30 PM PST! ⁣
⁣
Military families face unique challenges like frequent moves, isolation, and deployments, which double the risk of postpartum depression if a spouse is deployed during pregnancy.⁣
⁣
Led by Patience Riley, NCC, LPC, PMH-C, an experienced licensed therapist with 13 years in perinatal mental health, this powerful webinar will provide actionable insights and critical tools to support military families navigating postpartum challenges. With her extensive background, including running her blog “WHOA MAMA,” Patience brings real-world expertise you don’t want to miss.⁣
⁣
Through this webinar, you’ll…⁣
⁣
✅ Learn the ins and outs of military culture and its impact on mental health⁣
✅ Identify at least three therapeutic techniques to help families manage mental health during deployment and times of separation. ⁣
✅ Access must-have resources to support military families through the postpartum period⁣
⁣
Plus, 1 CE credit is available for LMFTs, LPCCs, LCSWs, LEPs, and psychologists! Don’t miss this chance to level up your knowledge and make a real difference in the lives of military families.⁣
⁣
Head over to our link in bio to reserve your spot today!

In a recent Los Angeles Times Article by Tony Briscoe, they’ve mentioned that “A team of researchers from the University of Southern California assessed the air quality in the communities of more than 350 pregnant women across Greater Los Angeles from 2015 to 2023. The researchers then tracked the women’s mental health for up to three years after they gave birth.⁣
⁣
In the air quality study, more than 17% of women reported having depressive symptoms one or two years after giving birth. About 13% of women still experienced these symptoms after three years.”⁣
⁣
Interested in reading the whole article? Head over to our link in bio.

Reminder🗓️ You have now until December to purchase the recordings from the S*x and Perinatal Mental Health Conference. If you missed your chance to attend and hear your favorite speakers, this is your chance. Head over to our link in bio to get the recording!

The goal of the Black Birthworkers Community is to build capacity, create community, and provide support to Black Birthworkers in order to improve access to holistic, culturally appropriate perinatal mental health care for⁣
Los Angeles County’s Black birthing population.⁣
⁣
We’ve hosted a series of events in 2024 that were dedicated to caring for the caregivers in the black birth workers community, such as a half-day wellness retreat at the Yoga Cooperative, R&B Yoda sessions at the Pluto Helipad, and brought together with the help of Walk Good LA a family hike at Griffith Park.⁣
⁣
In September 2023, MMHN launched the pilot of Black Birth Workers Enrichment Fund, which aims to care for Black providers who serve LA’s Black birthing population through stipends that support recipients’ education,personal and self-care needs. Initially, the fund was available to a small subset of applicants that participated in past B*W community events. Maternal Mental Health NOW received 26 applications within three days of launch! We awarded a total of $10,400 to 17 Black birth workers, primarily for education and training purposes.⁣
⁣
We want to continue to make LA county the best place to give birth. And that means continuing to support those who help make it possible. ⁣
⁣
To learn more about the Black birthworkers community and how to join, head over to our link in bio for more information. ⁣

SANA SANA is designed to provide comprehensive support for individuals experiencing perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. This initiative focuses on creating a safe and understanding environment for birthing people to receive the needed help.

It fosters a sense of belonging and validation, which is essential for emotional well-being and resilience, especially in communities that may face systemic barriers to accessing mainstream mental health services.

Want to join? Head over to our link in bio and one of our peer leaders will be assigned to contact you.

YOU’RE INVITED! Understanding California Birth Options Webinar- Know Your Rights

The Whole Child Equity Partnership’s Health Workgroup invites you to join the third and last webinar of the Understanding California Birth Options Series. Join us in a discussion about birthing rights in California with legal professionals.

California is currently experiencing a maternity care and maternal/infant mortality care crisis. We will clearly communicate the importance of the Midwifery Model of Care™, share information on childbirth education options, informed decision making and knowing your rights in a birth space setting – all in support of a safe and affirming childbirth experience for BIPOC families.

Know Your Rights
Thursday, November 7, 2024
3:30-5 p.m.

Speakers:
Keshia Adeniyi-Dorsey, ESQ- Family Defender
Jessica Chandler- Social Worker Investigator

Discussion: Birthing rights in California, frequently asked questions related to birth justice, and overcoming barriers to birth equity for birthing families of color.

Don’t miss a chance to enter a raffle and win a FREE consultation with Family Defender, Keshia Adeniyi-Dorsey , ESQ!

Register in the link in bio 👌🏽

YOU’RE INVITED! Understanding California Birth Options Webinar- Know Your Rights

The Whole Child Equity Partnership’s Health Workgroup invites you to join the third and last webinar of the Understanding California Birth Options Series. Join us in a discussion about birthing rights in California with legal professionals.

California is currently experiencing a maternity care and maternal/infant mortality care crisis. We will clearly communicate the importance of the Midwifery Model of Care™, share information on childbirth education options, informed decision making and knowing your rights in a birth space setting – all in support of a safe and affirming childbirth experience for BIPOC families.

Know Your Rights
Thursday, November 7, 2024
3:30-5 p.m.

Speakers:
Keshia Adeniyi-Dorsey, ESQ- Family Defender
Jessica Chandler- Social Worker Investigator

Discussion: Birthing rights in California, frequently asked questions related to birth justice, and overcoming barriers to birth equity for birthing families of color.

Don't miss a chance to enter a raffle and win a FREE consultation with Family Defender, Keshia Adeniyi-Dorsey , ESQ!

Register here: https://lnkd.in/g9-Hbz6J

This two-hour course for providers will review foundational information on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) and review the current landscape and recommendations for psychopharmacology in the perinatal period. ⁣
⁣
Sarah Oreck, MD, (she/her) Columbia-trained reproductive psychiatrist, will share her experiences supporting the mental health of pregnant, postpartum, and lactating birthing people including case studies.⁣
⁣
She will define the goals of reproductive psychiatry and address common misconceptions about medication in pregnancy. ⁣
⁣
This course is beneficial to anyone providing healthcare during the perinatal period (physicians, midwives, nurses, mental health professionals, lactation consultants and others) who desire to increase their knowledge of the risks and benefits of pursuing medication-assisted treatment for pregnant, postpartum, and lactating individuals in order to support them in making an educated, informed decision in their pursuit of wellness and mental health.⁣
⁣
By taking “Psychopharmacology and Perinatal Mental Health for Physicians” course, you will be able to: ⁣
⁣
+ Define reproductive psychiatry and identify the parameters of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders⁣
⁣
+ Identify 3 risks of untreated psychiatric disorders in the peripartum period⁣
⁣
+ Identify 3 non-pharmacologic approaches to consider prior to pursuing medication-assisted interventions.⁣
⁣
+ Critique empirical research studies to assess for implications for pregnant and postpartum bodies including possible limitations and confounders⁣
⁣
+ Explain elements of safety and efficacy of psychotropic medications in pregnancy and during breast/chestfeeding.⁣
⁣
Head over to our link in bio to register for this course today!

"Stigma around maternal mental health keeps too many from seeking help. We need culturally competent care and integrated models to ensure everyone gets the support they deserve." Strong words from .teridavis at !

"Birthworkers are often the first to notice perinatal mental health issues. We need holistic, integrated care that recognizes mental health as essential to maternal health." Thank you to for your advocacy at !

The room is full of connection and healing as participants share their powerful perinatal mental health stories. Storytelling fosters solidarity and empowerment!

Laughter and tears as bravely shares her own journey through postpartum depression. Vulnerability can be transformative!

"The Imperfect Mothers Club" documentary by @ is a raw, real look at postpartum mental health. Stay tuned for more on the power of storytelling to heal!

"Black women are nearly 4x more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women, & mental health challenges are the leading cause of maternal mortality." Powerful words from at as we push for systemic change!

"1 in 5 women face perinatal mental health challenges, yet many remain in silence. It's time to change the narrative." Powerful insights from Dr. Rohit Passi and Karen Bennett.

"Today marks a pivotal moment in the movement for perinatal mental health justice.” Powerful opening words from ’s .manjikian as we begin the event! 🎙️ Stay with us for live updates!

Here’s everything you need to know for today’s event ⁣
⁣
🔘From Pain To Power🔘⁣
⁣
Arrival & Registration:⁣
⁣
Sponsors who are tabling are invited to arrive early at 8:00 AM to set up.⁣
⁣
Doors for participants open at 8:30 AM for registration, breakfast, and networking.⁣
We encourage you to arrive 10-15 minutes early to ensure a smooth check-in and to grab breakfast before the program begins at 9:00 AM sharp.⁣
⁣
We highly encourage attending the entire event to experience the breadth of our programming.⁣
⁣
Parking & Transportation:⁣
⁣
The event will take place at 3787 South Vermont Avenue. ⁣
⁣
Look for signs with balloons and a security guard who will direct you to parking. Parking is limited, so If you’re able, we highly recommend using public transportation (Expo Line – Expo/Vermont Station) or carpooling.⁣
⁣
⁣
If you have any questions please contact Kimberly Gray, [email protected]. ⁣
⁣
We’re so excited to see you and grateful for your participation in driving change in perinatal mental health!⁣

On behalf of the LA Partnership for Early Childhood Investment, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH), the Department of Health Services, First 5 LA, and the Center for Strategic Partnerships, we are excited to announce the launch of the fifth round of funding for the African American Infant and Maternal Mortality (AAIMM) Prevention Initiative Village Fund (The Village Fund). ⁣
⁣
The Village Fund seeks to reinforce the broad goals of the AAIMM Prevention Initiative by funding community-led efforts that support the physical, mental, and social-emotional well-being of Black women/birthing persons, fathers, partners, and families before, during, and after birth. We seek applications from organizations, networks, coalitions, individual service providers, micro-enterprises, or small businesses whose services will contribute to joyous and healthy births for Black families in Los Angeles County. Priority consideration will be given to entities that are Black-led. ⁣
⁣
For more information about The Village Fund and to access the application, please visit our link in bio.

Maternal Mental Health NOW increases the capacity of individuals, organizations and systems to identify and respond to the perinatal mental⁣ health and whole person care needs of LA County’s birthing people and their family members through training, coaching, quality improvement, and care.⁣
⁣
Maternal Mental Health NOW is the only organization in LA⁣
County solely dedicated to improving the system of perinatal mental health care by centering the community members’ voice.⁣
⁣
Over the past seventeen years, Maternal Mental Health NOW (a project of 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor Community Partners) has prepared over30,000 health care and social service providers to identify and respond to perinatal mood and anxiety challenges and helped⁣ over 57,000 birthing people and their family members⁣ feel more comfortable speaking out about their experiences and seeking support.⁣
⁣
Thank you for your support in making Los Angeles County the best place in the country to give birth!⁣

This program is offered by Maternal Mental Health NOW. The mission of Maternal Mental Health NOW is to remove barriers to the prevention, identification and treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders in Los Angeles County. This program is supported by the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation.⁣
⁣
An empathetic and supportive ear from a peer who has been there!⁣
⁣
-Gender affirming⁣
-Culturally congruent support⁣
-Connections to local resources⁣
-Access to free support groups⁣
-Weekly follow up⁣
-Co-created care plan⁣
⁣
This service is available to all expectant and new parents in Los Angeles County, including:⁣
⁣
-Mothers⁣
-Fathers⁣
-Partners⁣
-Adoptive Parents⁣
-Birth parents who choose adoption⁣
-Black Indigenous Birthing People of Color⁣
-Q***r & gender expansive people⁣
-Those who have lost a pregnancy⁣
-Those suffering from infertility⁣
-Those who have lost an infant⁣
-Those who have terminated a pregnancy⁣
⁣
Head over to our link in bio to sign up or refer a client who would benefit from this peer-ran support group.

✨There are just a few spots left to attend Pain To Power!✨⁣
⁣⁣⁣
We invite you to attend “From Pain to Power: A Postpartum Mental Health Convening on Storytelling and Policy Change” on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, from 8:30 am-2 pm at Wellnest in Downtown Los Angeles.⁣⁣⁣
⁣⁣⁣
This event will feature a documentary screening, interactive storytelling opportunities, and panel discussions, all aimed at raising awareness, reducing stigma, and driving meaningful policy change in perinatal mental health. ⁣⁣⁣
⁣⁣⁣
It’s also a great opportunity to network with peers who share your commitment to improving perinatal mental health outcomes.⁣⁣⁣
⁣⁣⁣
If you are a parent, healthcare practitioner, community-based provider, or community leader who is passionate about maternal mental health, register now (link in bio) to secure your spot and be part of this important conversation.⁣
⁣⁣

Ellen Branch, who is the Assistant Program Manager and Black Mamas Glowing Comprehensive Perinatal Model at I.D.R.E.A.M for Racial Health Equity has come out with her book, Mommy Has A Doula© ⁣
⁣
This children’s book is a perfect way to introduce the idea of having a doula to your children, partners, and family members. ⁣
⁣
Support is crucial on your pregnancy/birthing journey and it starts in the home. Written from the perspective of an older sibling to its new brother or sister, Mommy Has A Doula© teaches families the importance of the age old quote, “It takes a village.”⁣
⁣
Having a doula during the pregnancy journey is beneficial but the presence of a doula is essential during postpartum. ⁣
⁣
Studies show that the main reason mamas/birthing people experience prolonged postpartum depression is due to lack of support.⁣
⁣
This book describes what a doula is, why they are important to the entire family, and why mamas/birthing people benefit from having a doula that comes from the community they serve.⁣
⁣
Head over to our link in bio to support and purchase your copy today!