“This year, Mother’s Day (May 12) happens to also be the first day of National Prevention Week, which promotes substance misuse prevention and positive mental health. In tandem with these dual observances, Placer County Health and Human Services is launching a new campaign to promote its perinatal substance use services for expectant and new mothers.

The new initiative – with a theme of “They are worth it. You are worth it.” –  features real stories from Placer County mothers and aims to spotlight the importance of treatment in ensuring healthy outcomes for both mothers and children.

Using drugs or alcohol during pregnancy presents significant risks to maternal and fetal health, yet shame and stigma can prevent many mothers from seeking help. Nationwide data from SAMHSA shows that drug overdose mortality for pregnant and postpartum people increased approximately 81 percent from 2017 to 2020. With that understanding, HHS is rolling out a multifaceted campaign designed to reach expectant and new mothers, families and healthcare professionals.

Perinatal substance use services are available to Placer residents who are pregnant, have children under 17, and/or are attempting to regain custody of children while trying to address substance use. The program primarily serves those with Medi-Cal or who are uninsured.”

Read further from the County of Placer (USA, May 2024)