Mental Health Committee

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Behind every strong mother is a network that sees her, hears her, and supports her emotional well-being. We’re here to ensure no woman faces the journey of motherhood alone.

Patients with Lived Experiences

After giving birth, I began experiencing intense depression and anxiety—feelings that were overwhelming, confusing, and deeply isolating. I didn’t know what was happening to me, and no one ever screened me or asked about my mental health. I was left to navigate this darkness alone. I tried to reach out, but the responses I received only deepened my pain. One family member told me, “When I feel sad, I just tell myself not to feel sad anymore. Maybe you should try that.” That moment stuck with me—not because it helped, but because it reminded me how misunderstood mental health struggles can be. Depression and anxiety aren’t choices. They’re not something you can simply will away. They are real, complex, and deserve to be treated with compassion and care. For years, I felt like I was broken, like my emotions were too much, or that I was failing as a mother. But I wasn’t broken—I was suffering in silence. I share my story because I believe in the power of awareness, education, and empathy. Mental health committees have the opportunity to change lives by advocating for screening, support, and understanding. No one should have to feel invisible in their pain.

Anonymous

about us

What we do as the Mental Health Committee

Mental well-being is a core part of maternal health, yet it’s often overlooked. The Mental Health Committee is dedicated to ensuring that women across Kentucky receive the emotional support and care they need throughout pregnancy and beyond. By promoting awareness, reducing stigma, and expanding access to culturally competent mental health services, we’re working to create a healthcare system that sees and supports the whole woman—mind, body, and spirit.

A Leading, Often Silent Cause of Maternal Death

Maternal mental health conditions are the most common complication of pregnancy and childbirth—yet they remain one of the least recognized contributors to maternal mortality and morbidity in the United States.

1 in 5 mothers experiences a maternal mental health (MMH) condition such as depression, anxiety, or substance use disorder during or after pregnancy 1

Suicide and overdose are leading causes of maternal death, accounting for nearly 1 in 4 maternal fatalities in the U.S.—more than twice the number caused by postpartum hemorrhage 2

75% of women with mental health conditions go untreated, increasing the risk of long-term harm to both mother and child 1

Symptoms can begin during pregnancy or emerge postpartum, with 40% developing after childbirth, 33% during pregnancy, and 27% entering pregnancy with pre-existing mental health conditions 1

Despite these alarming statistics, only 20% of postpartum individuals are screened for depression 2
This gap in care is especially dangerous given that the perinatal period is a time of frequent contact with healthcare providers—an opportunity too often missed.

Resources

Explore trusted tools, programs, and local services that promote mental well-being and support emotional health for women, families, and providers across Kentucky.

Please note: If you think you may have a medical or life-threatening behavioral health emergency or your condition becomes life-threatening, please call 911 or go to the nearest hospital immediately.

Kynect Maternal Mental Health

The Kynect website is a great tool for those looking for resources throughout Kentucky. When on the page, click on the pregnancy tab and enter your city. On the left make sure the mental health option is clicked. From here, you can find many options to help—click below to access the website.

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Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services

Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs) and Adult State-Operated or State-Contracted Psychiatric Hospitals Alphabetically by County.

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Kentucky Chapter of Postpartum Support International

Need Support? You’re Not Alone.
PSI Help Line: 1-800-944-4773 (4PPD)
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Help is available 24/7. Reach out—for additional services click below.

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National Maternal Mental Health Hotline

The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline offers free, confidential, and 24/7 support from trained counselors. You’re not alone—click the link below to get support.

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