The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to implement a pilot maternal health program in El Monte, hoping to reach pregnant women and new mothers struggling with postpartum depression or substance abuse.
Supervisor Hilda Solis recommended the pilot program.
“Nationally, maternal mental health disorders affect one in seven mothers,” Solis said. “Too many women suffer in silence due to the stigma surrounding maternal mental health disorders.”
The rate of postpartum depression is much higher in Los Angeles County. A 2016 survey by the Department of Public Health indicated that more than 25% of new moms experienced symptoms of depression.
The Department of Mental Health plans to work with public health workers, faith-based groups and promotoras — community health workers who work in Spanish-speaking communities — to set up peer support groups. Community health workers will also begin a public awareness campaign to educate new mothers on the importance of mental health. Medical providers will also receive training to more effectively diagnose related issues.
“Every mother and child, regardless of race, ethnicity or income, has a right to reach her full potential in life,” Solis said.
The board directed staffers to come up with a plan for the pilot in 90 days.