In California, a quiet crisis lurks behind the joyful façade of parenthood, as one in five mothers and one in ten fathers experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. Cassie Manjikian, co-founder of the California Perinatal Wellness Alliance, is stepping into the spotlight to advocate for better mental health care for new families. The organization is on a mission to reshape California’s perinatal mental health system into something just, inclusive, and sustainable.
Recently, the Alliance brought together state leaders and advocacy groups to tackle this pressing issue. The conversation revealed some hard truths: while screening has improved, the actual implementation of effective mental health care remains fragmented. Families who screen positive often find themselves lost in the cracks of a system that should support them. Manjikian emphasizes that mental health isn’t just an individual problem; it’s a collective challenge that everyone must help tackle.
Amidst these efforts, the state is launching the“Strong Start and Beyond Initiative,”aiming to cut maternal mortality rates by 50% by 2026. But as Manjikian points out, achieving this ambitious goal requires a herculean effort not just from the state but from community organizations, parents, and clinicians. With awareness as the first step, it’s clear that we all have a role to play in ensuring new families receive the care and support they deserve. After all, parenting is a journey better taken together, right?
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
