Maternal Mental Health
Maternal mental health is just as important as physical health during pregnancy and after birth. In the Texas Panhandle, about 11.4% of women are diagnosed with a mental health disorder during or after pregnancy, a reminder that these challenges are common and deserve attention. Conditions such as prenatal and postpartum depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders can affect a mother’s well-being and her ability to care for herself and her baby.
Factors like hormonal changes, physical recovery, insurance gaps, and the stress of new motherhood can make this period especially difficult. For many families in rural counties, barriers such as limited providers, long travel distances, and stigma around mental health add extra challenges.
The Vibrant Moms project is working to change this by providing education, early screening, and direct support through Community Health Workers (CHWs), referral networks, and local partnerships. With the right help, mothers can heal, adapt, and thrive, and healthier moms mean healthier babies and stronger communities.
Support Strategies
Community Health Worker (CHW) Support
CHWs provide one-on-one follow-up, help monitor mental health after delivery, and connect families to services in day to day language.
Education & Awareness Campaigns
County-specific outreach and bilingual materials reduce stigma and make it clear that maternal mental health is a normal, treatable part of maternal care.
Warm Handoffs to Providers
Instead of sending mothers away with a phone number, CHWs and coalition partners make direct referrals to mental health providers and follow up to ensure families are connected.
Referral Pathways Across Counties
Vibrant Moms is building stronger networks with local clinics, mental health providers, WIC, and social services so families know exactly where to go for support — even if resources are limited in their home county.
Postpartum Check-Ins
Regular check-ins during the 4th trimester help identify depression or anxiety early and reduce the chance that mothers “fall through the cracks” after birth.
You're Not Alone.
Becoming a new parent can be hard. It is normal to feel depressed, anxious, and overwhelmed after having a baby. You are not alone. It's important to remember that mental health challenges are common during this time and there is no shame in seeking help. If you need someone to talk to, call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) any time. It's free and confidential.
Postpartum Support International
Postpartum Support International (PSI) is a global organization dedicated to helping individuals affected by perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, including postpartum depression. PSI offers education, support, and resources for new parents, families, and healthcare providers to promote mental health during pregnancy and after childbirth. Their services include a helpline, support groups, and a network of professionals to ensure no one feels alone in their journey through postpartum challenges.
Resources and Support
The information provided on this site is intended as a resource hub to help mothers access and review important maternal health information. This is not intended to provide medical advice. Before making any health decisions, always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it is appropriate for your individual needs.