New MSDH Podcast Episode Spotlights Maternal Mental Health

Jackson, Miss. — May is recognized as Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month. Focusing on the mental health of women who are pregnant or have given birth is as important as physical health. The new episode of the Mississippi State Department of Health's podcast, Health Talk MS, takes a close look at warning signs and resources available to women that may battle mental health struggles.

Host Greg Flynn sits down with a trio of experts to discuss the importance of the issue. The power panelists are Dr. Tom Recore, Medical Director at the Mississippi Department of Mental Health; Jillian Harper, Director of the MSDH Healthy Moms/Healthy Babies Program; and LeJeune Johnson, a Board Member of the Postpartum Support International, Mississippi Chapter.

The panel discusses that "It's ok to say you're not ok." Taking a first step to get help is the most important thing a woman can do for not only her health, but that of her baby. The panel also talks about the importance of taking away the stigma of mental health problems, providing the resources that are available and the tangible steps families can take to make a difference.

It's a powerful episode that you won't want to miss.

You can find the Health Talk MS podcast on the MSDH YouTube channel, youtube.com/@HealthyMississippi, and the following platforms: Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Deezer, Jiosaavn, and Podcast Index.

The goal of the monthly podcast, produced in partnership with Mississippi Public Broadcasting (MPB), is to empower everyone with the tools to lead healthier lives.