Woman's Hospital Revolutionizes Maternal Mental Health with Innovative Unit

In a groundbreaking move for Louisiana, Woman's Hospital introduces the first inpatient perinatal mental health unit, dedicated to supporting women through their mental health journey during and after pregnancy. Cheri Johnson, Chief Nursing Officer, emphasizes the importance of breaking the stigma around mental health, particularly postpartum depression, stating, 'You are not failing as a mother, you are just going through a difficult time. ' The hospital's perinatal mental health unit, opening Tuesday morning, addresses the unique needs of one in eight women who experience pre- and post-partum depression, according to the CDC. Kelly Cannon, Director of Inpatient Psychiatry, highlights the unit's design, which focuses on maternal mental health care, ensuring that patients receive the specialized attention they require without being transferred to other facilities. The unit accommodates up to ten women at a time, providing care for pre- and post-natal women with severe depression and anxiety. Patients can benefit from various therapies, including bonding with their infants, attending group sessions, and participating in garden therapy on the outdoor terrace. Cannon notes, 'Woman's Hospital is truly filling a filling a gap in care