Strong Start and Beyond. Banner image with pregnant woman and families.

MESSAGE FROM DR. RAMOS

Happy holidays, California! During this special time of year before we head into 2025, I would like to stop and highlight a few accomplishments we have made this past year. In 2024, the Office of the California Surgeon General launched, not one but, two incredible efforts to improve the lives and well-being of all Californians: Live Beyond, the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) awareness campaign for youth and families, and Strong Start & Beyond, our bold movement to reduce maternal mortality across the state. Throughout the 100+ presentations I’ve given this year, I’ve had the opportunity and privilege to meet many of you in person, and I look forward to continuing our work together.


As we enter the holiday season, a joyful time for many, it is important to acknowledge that it can also be quite melancholy for others when we recall sad times during our childhood, for example, or miss family and friends far away in another part of the state or even another country. I know when I start to feel sad, focusing on others in need helps me feel better and refocus my energy.


With this in mind, I invite you to do something kind for a new mom or birthing person through our “One Small Thing” social media campaign. Create a video clip highlighting how you are helping new parents. By doing one small thing, you not only help them be healthier, you also care for the whole family. Lastly, but certainly not least, remember to take care of YOU, our valued partner, especially during this busy time. Wishing everyone lots of love and peace this holiday season.


Together in health,

Dr. Diana Ramos

California Surgeon General



MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020 established 9-8-8 as the new number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (NSPL). California, the most populous state, accounts for a significant portion of NSPL calls, with 1 in 8 originating there in 2020. To manage this, California has set up 12 local Lifeline Crisis Centers that offer 24/7 support, including suicide risk assessments, de-escalation, and referrals to local resources. These centers aim to provide immediate, free, and confidential emotional support to individuals in behavioral health crises.

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline

The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, reachable at 1-833-TLC-MAMA, provides confidential, 24/7 support to individuals facing mental health challenges during pregnancy, childbirth, or postpartum. It connects callers to trained counselors who offer emotional support, guidance, and referrals to local mental health services. The hotline serves all mothers and pregnant individuals across the U.S.

CALL TO ACTION: ONE SMALL THING

In this season of giving, we are asking: What is one small thing you can do to support a new mom or birthing person?


It doesn’t have to be big—something as simple as bringing dinner, babysitting for a few hours, or helping with errands can make a huge difference. We invite you to share your ideas, videos, or testimonials to inspire others with the hashtag #OneSmallThingCAOSG on social media and send us an email at strongstartandbeyond@osg.ca.gov.


Need some help getting started? Be on the lookout for our informational guide coming soon with instructions on how to record a video, examples for reference, starter scripts on how to start and end the video, and suggestions on things to do for mom.

PARTNER CORNER

Meet El Camino Health


El Camino Health is a nationally recognized and locally trusted not-for-profit healthcare system located in the Bay Area. The El Camino Health’s Women’s Specialty Unit is the only dedicated inpatient psychiatric unit for perinatal patients in the Western United States. The unit provides a safe space for treating maternal mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and postpartum psychosis. With personalized care, partner support, and outpatient programs, they’re dedicated to supporting families for lasting well-being. Take a virtual tour and learn more about how to refer.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITY

The Secondary Data Analysis Research (SDAR) program supports research using existing national datasets or administrative records to improve the health and well-being of maternal and child health populations, including children with autism and other developmental disabilities. SDAR funding opportunity closes on February 25, 2025.


Maternal and Child Health Secondary Data Analysis Research

  1. Number of possible awards: Up to 10 grants for 2 years each
  2. Award amount: $60,000 per year


Visit the SDAR webpage for an overview of this research program. Watch the recorded pre-application technical assistance webinar.

KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST

Registration is now open for next month’s partner webinar on:


Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at 12PM

REGISTER TODAY VIA ZOOM


Unable to attend? The webinar will be recorded and published to our YouTube channel. Did you miss last month's webinar? It's now available online for viewing.


Also, OSG is now on LinkedIn! Follow us to stay updated on our latest efforts, insights, and opportunities to improve the health and well-being of Californians.


Have suggestions on collaboration or interested in being featured in an upcoming newsletter or other communication channel? Contact us for consideration at strongstartandbeyond@osg.ca.gov.

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