May is recognized nationally as Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month, highlighting the emotional and psychological challenges faced by mothers during pregnancy and postpartum. Research by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention finds that maternal mental health conditions are among the most common complications of pregnancy and childbirth.
Recently, we spoke with Dr. Burl Forgey at Woman’s Hospital Behavioral Health Center and Perinatal Mental Health Unit, to discuss the importance of supporting women through pregnancy and postpartum mental health challenges. Dr. Forgey has more than 25 years of experience as a psychiatrist providing compassionate and specialized care to women during one of the most pivotal times in their lives.
Q&A with Dr. Forgey
What do you love most about working in women’s mental health specifically?
I particularly enjoy supporting women and their families during the perinatal period because it offers the opportunity to make a profound impact during such a pivotal time. Supporting mothers and helping them with their mental well-being can also positively influence their relationships with their children and families. This reinforces the generational importance of maternal mental health in creating a healthier future for both mothers and their children.
How do you and the team at Woman’s Behavioral Health help identify and support mothers experiencing mental health challenges during pregnancy and postpartum?
At Woman’s Hospital, we take a comprehensive and compassionate approach. Our multidisciplinary team—including obstetricians, perinatal psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, and mental health professionals—works together to identify women who may be struggling.
We conduct routine screenings for conditions like depression and anxiety during both prenatal visits and postpartum check-ups. Many of our staff have decades of experience working with women during this transformative period, allowing us to take a proactive stance in spotting potential concerns.
Support may include counseling, outpatient referrals, or inpatient care in our dedicated Perinatal Mental Health Unit. We also prioritize education, helping mothers and families understand the importance of mental health and fostering open, judgment-free conversations.
How does pregnancy affect mental health, and what is your advice for maintaining well-being during this time?
Pregnancy can bring significant emotional and physical changes. Hormonal fluctuations, the stress of impending parenthood, and physical discomfort can all contribute to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. These feelings are common and treatable.
To support mental health during pregnancy and postpartum, I recommend:
- Stay Connected. Lean on supportive friends and family.
- Prioritize Self-Care. Engage in activities that bring you peace and joy.
- Be Aware. Do not dismiss shifts in mood or behavior as “just pregnancy.”
- Seek Professional Support. Talk to your OB-GYN or nurse. They can guide you to the right resources.
- Establish a Routine. Consistent daily routines offer comfort and stability.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Prioritizing your well-being also benefits your baby’s development and the overall health of your family.
What advice can you share with women who want to reach out for help but may be embarrassed or afraid of being stigmatized?
Reaching out can feel daunting, especially due to the societal stigma. But within Woman’s Hospital, there is no stigma. From the front desk to our clinical staff, everyone understands the critical importance of mental health care.
You are not alone. Many women experience the same challenges, and seeking help is a brave and necessary step toward healing. Woman’s Hospital is here to walk beside you, every step of the way.
If you or someone you know is struggling with perinatal mental health, do not wait. Contact your healthcare provider for a referral to Woman’s Behavioral Health or Woman’s Perinatal Mental Health Unit. You deserve compassionate care, and you are never alone.
Meet Dr. Burl Forgey, IV
Dr. Burl Forgey brings more than 25 years of psychiatric expertise to the Woman’s Behavioral Health team. A Louisiana native, Dr. Forgey earned his medical degree from LSU Medical School in New Orleans and completed his psychiatry residency at the Alton Ochsner training program. He is board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has dedicated his career to treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, bipolar disorder, and more. At Woman’s, Dr. Forgey provides compassionate, specialized care to women during one of the most pivotal times in their lives.