Louisiana

Louisiana has implemented several programs and initiatives to support the mental health and wellness of mothers, infants, and children. Notable among these are:

TLC Moms Initiative
Launched by the Louisiana Department of Health's Office on Women's Health and Community Health (OWHCH), TLC Moms focuses on raising awareness about perinatal mental health issues. It offers resources and support to expectant and new mothers dealing with mental health challenges.

Louisiana Healthcare Connections – Child Mental Health Services
Louisiana Healthcare Connections offers mental health services for children at no cost. These services include screenings, evaluations, and treatments, emphasizing early intervention for conditions like anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues.

Woman's Hospital Perinatal Mental Health Unit (PMHU)
Located in Baton Rouge, Woman's Hospital offers Louisiana's first inpatient unit dedicated solely to perinatal mental health. It provides comprehensive treatment for women facing psychiatric disorders during pregnancy, up to one year postpartum, or those who have experienced a recent pregnancy loss.

Postpartum Support and Counseling

1. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Louisiana

Offers mental health education, support groups, and advocacy for parents and family caregivers of individuals with mental health conditions, including postpartum mental health.

1. Louisiana Chapter of Postpartum Support International (PSI): This organization aims to increase awareness, education, prevention, and treatment of perinatal mental health issues affecting individuals and their families across Louisiana. They offer resources and support for those dealing with postpartum depression and other related conditions.

1. Children's Hospital New Orleans – Behavioral Health Services

Children's Hospital provides a 51-bed Behavioral Health Center dedicated to the mental healthcare needs of children and adolescents in crisis. Services include inpatient care, outpatient assessments, and treatment for various psychiatric and behavioral disorders.

1. Coordinated System of Care (CSoC)

CSoC is a Louisiana Department of Health initiative that provides services and supports to children with significant behavioral health challenges. It emphasizes delivering services within the child's home and community, promoting family involvement and individualized care plans.

1. Louisiana Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health (LAFFCMH) LAFFCMH serves as the state's advocacy organization for families of children and youth with mental health needs. They assist families in accessing information and resources to support their children's mental health and well-being.

Public Health and Community Support Programs

1. Healthy Louisiana Women Program

Similar to the Healthy Texas Women program, this program offers family planning, reproductive health, and limited prenatal and mental health services for eligible low-income women.

1. Louisiana Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV)

Provides voluntary home visits that include education and support for maternal mental health, parenting, and infant development, especially in underserved communities.

Crisis Support

1. Louisiana Maternal Mental Health Hotline

A 24/7 free and confidential support line specifically for pregnant and postpartum individuals experiencing mental health challenges, including depression and anxiety. Staffed by trained professionals to provide immediate assistance and referrals.
Call or text: 1-833-978-4673 Learn More

1. 211 Louisiana

Operated by United Way, dialing 2-1-1 connects individuals to local mental health services, support groups, and community resources. Available statewide and free to call. Dial: 2-1-1

1. National Maternal Mental Health Hotline

Available 24/7, this free and confidential service offers support to pregnant and new mothers experiencing mental health challenges. Trained counselors provide immediate assistance and connect callers to local resources.

These programs collectively aim to address the mental health needs of mothers, infants, and children in Louisiana, offering a range of services from awareness and education to direct clinical support.