Houston Methodist rallies to prioritize Moms’ well-being during Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- With more than 40,000 babies are born across the greater Houston area every year, according to March of Dimes’ peristats, Houston Methodist is committed to providing unparalleled care for both mother and baby. Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital’s Maternal Behavioral Health Program stands at the heart of this mission, tackling key issues impacted by maternal mental health including preterm birth, infant development, maternal bonding, maternal mortality and suicide — challenges that touch every corner of the community.

Under the leadership of Jasminet Pathak, Ph.D., licensed social worker and Elizabeth Barnett, director of the childbirth center at The Woodlands, the program is dedicated to guiding families through the life-changing journey to parenthood and of parenthood.

Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week is May 4–10. Pathak and Barnett participated in the following Q&A to discuss how the program provides resources and support for Houston families.

Q: What is the Maternal Behavioral Health Program at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Hospital?

Barnett and Pathak: This program supports mothers and their families through the transitions of conception, pregnancy and postpartum. The mission is to prevent and address behavioral health concerns by providing lifesaving care and educational resources to Houston Methodist patients and their loved ones, guiding them with compassion and expertise.

As an outpatient program, Houston Methodist The Woodlands’ uses a patient-centered, collaborative approach focused on physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. Through evidence-based interventions and education, the program aims to reduce stigma and empower families to thrive.

Q: Why is a comprehensive maternal health program especially important for families? Pathak: A comprehensive maternal health program is essential because it allows for the opportunity to:

▪ Support healthy moms/healthy babies.

▪ Adjust to family and life changes.

▪ Decrease perinatal suicides.

▪ Decrease emergency department visits.

▪ Decrease hospitalizations for mothers.

▪ Healthier families

▪ Less financial impact for families.

Q: What types of support are available to mothers through the program? Barnett and Pathak: The program offers various types of support for mothers and their support system. Outpatient counseling for expectant and postpartum mothers and education for mothers and families about common emotional changes during and after pregnancy. The program also can help with navigating care — such as follow-ups after giving birth and connecting patients to other hospital services they might need.

Q: Many mothers aren’t sure if what they’re feeling during or after pregnancy is “normal.” What would you want them to know?

Pathak: We encourage mothers not to hesitate to ask questions and advocate for themselves. They are not alone — we at Houston Methodist care deeply about their well being. Maternal mental health is health and is just as important as physical health.

If something doesn’t feel right, we encourage patients to speak up. Just as patients would contact their doctor for a physical concern, we encourage them to seek help for mental health symptoms as well. Patients experiencing sadness, anxiety, intrusive thoughts or anything other concerns should talk to their doctor.

Q: How does the Maternal Behavioral Health Program integrate mental well-being into maternity care?

Barnett and Pathak: This program provides specialized support for Houston Methodist patients during pregnancy and the postpartum period, helping address concerns such as anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges. The program has supported thousands of patients throughout their pregnancy journey and beyond.

Q: What message do you hope mothers and families take away during Maternal Health Week?

Pathak: One in five women experience a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder. For patients struggling, help is available. Support can come from many places, including one’s medical team and/or trusted loved ones.

Help is available 24/7 for anyone in crisis through the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 (call or text).

Q: How can families in The Woodlands learn more or access maternal health services at Houston Methodist?

Barnett: Houston Methodist patients can reach out to their obstetrician for assistance.