Blue Shift Project of Yuba-Sutter
Transforming how we screen for, diagnose, and treat Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders
Blue Shift Project
of Yuba-Sutter
Transforming how we screen for, diagnose, and treat Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders
If you feel that you or a loved one may be suffering from a pregnancy or post-partum mood disorder, we strongly encourage you to contact your healthcare provider.
If you have thoughts of harming yourself, your baby, or others, or if your pregnant or post-partum loved one is exhibiting concerning behaviors, call 911.
Who We Are
Perinatal behavioral health plays a critical role in the well-being of pregnant and postpartum individuals, infants, and families. Across the nation, there is increasing recognition of the importance of strengthening systems that support maternal behavioral health during the perinatal period. In our region, partners across healthcare, behavioral health, public health, and community-based organizations share a commitment to improving awareness, early identification, access to care, and coordinated support for families.
Through collaborative dialogue, several opportunities for strengthening our local system of care have emerged.
Awareness and Professional Education
Perinatal behavioral health challenges are often under-recognized within the broader community and across some professional sectors. Expanding public awareness and professional education can help reduce stigma, promote early recognition, and ensure families and providers understand how to access available supports. Strengthening workforce capacity through training, continuing education, and shared learning opportunities across healthcare, behavioral health, and community-based providers can further enhance the community’s ability to recognize and respond to perinatal behavioral health needs.
Early Identification and Screening
Screening is an important tool for identifying individuals who may be experiencing perinatal behavioral health concerns. While validated screening tools and national guidelines exist, screening and referral practices vary across settings. Strengthening shared approaches to early identification and referral can support timely connection to appropriate care.
Care Coordination Across Systems
Services that support perinatal behavioral health exist across healthcare, behavioral health, and community-based systems, yet these services are not always fully aligned or easy for families to navigate. Greater collaboration and coordination across sectors can help strengthen referral pathways and improve the overall experience for families seeking support.
Sustainable Resources and Investment
Despite its prevalence and impact on families, perinatal behavioral health has historically received less research and program investment compared to other health conditions affecting women. This underscores the importance of continuing to elevate perinatal behavioral health as a public health priority and pursuing sustainable investments that support prevention, early identification, and treatment.
Complete a referral form today.
For yourself, someone you love, or a client/patient.
A Blue Shift Representative will respond within 48 business hours.
Members of the Blue Shift Workgroup represent various cross-sector agencies.
Fill out our Blue Shift Project Contact Form to be added to our distribution list, and receive updates on meetings and events.