Kenosha Reporter

Kenosha County Behavioral Health Services has introduced a new resource aimed at supporting pregnant women facing mental health challenges. The initiative, titled “Mental Health, Substance Use Disorder, Stigma, and Pregnancy,” covers issues such as mental health and substance use during pregnancy, safe-haven options for newborns, and prenatal and postpartum care.

The resource includes a well-being plan for mothers to document their feelings and thoughts to share with healthcare providers. It also offers information for providers who work with pregnant or postpartum women dealing with mental health or substance use disorders. The material is available on the county website in both online and downloadable brochure formats.

“Pregnancy is an exciting time that comes with a mix of emotions and challenges,” said Kari Foss, Director of the Kenosha County Division of Behavioral Health Services. "It can be filled with joy, anticipation, and amazement. But while you’re sharing and experiencing happiness and joy at your news, you may also feel stress and anxiety as you adjust to physical and emotional changes while preparing for parenthood. Add a mental health disorder, substance use disorder, and the stigma surrounding these concerns into the mix, and the pregnancy can become even more challenging for you.”

Lisa Koenen, Behavioral Health Outreach Coordinator for Kenosha County Behavioral Health Services, explained that the goal is to make information about available resources easier to find.

In Kenosha County schools during the 2023-24 school year, there were 25,402 students enrolled. Of these students, 55.6% (14,124) were white; Hispanic students made up 25.7% (6,528), making them the second largest group; Black students represented 10.4% (2,642); American Indian students accounted for just 0.2%, making them one of the least represented groups in local schools (https://dpi.wi.gov/).

Indian Trail High School and Academy had the highest enrollment among county schools in 2023-24 with 2,001 students; Tremper High School followed with 1,458 students; Bradford High School had 1,448 enrolled (https://dpi.wi.gov/).