Healthy Texan Week 2026: Easy, Affordable Ways to Eat Well All Week

Healthy Texan Week is about making small, realistic changes that fit your life. You do not need complicated recipes or expensive ingredients to eat well. Adding fruits and vegetables, making simple swaps, and staying active can help support your health over time.

Start with one small change today. It all adds up.

Healthy Texan Week is a great time to focus on simple habits that support your health. Eating well does not have to be expensive or complicated. Small changes, like adding more fruits and vegetables, choosing simple meals, and moving a little more each day, can make a real difference over time.

If you are not sure where to start, try adding one fruit or vegetable to each meal, using ingredients you already have at home, and choosing options that fit your budget like frozen or canned produce. Healthy choices should feel realistic for your daily life.

This week, we are sharing easy, affordable recipes for each day, along with simple tips to help you build healthy habits that last.

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May 4 鈥� Veggie Street Tacos with Fresh Salsa

Celebrate the start of the week with a colorful and simple meal.

Tip of the Day: Add one extra vegetable to your meal today. Even small changes, like adding peppers, onions, or tomatoes, can help you eat more balanced meals.

Ingredients:

• Corn tortillas

• 1 bell pepper, sliced

• 1 zucchini, diced

• 1/2 onion, sliced

• 1 tomato, chopped

• Juice of 1 lime

• Olive oil or spray for pan

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the bell pepper, zucchini, and onion. Add a little salt and pepper.

2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with oil.

3. Add the veggies to the pan and cook for 5鈥�7 minutes, until tender.

4. While veggies are cooking, warm your tortillas in another pan or in the microwave.

5. Once the veggies are ready, spoon them into the warm tortillas.

6. In a small bowl, mix the chopped tomato and lime juice. Spoon over the tacos as a quick salsa.

Recipe Tip: You can add taco seasoning to the veggies while they cook for extra flavor. Want more protein? Add black beans or shredded chicken if you have them on hand!

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May 5 鈥� Easy Veggie-Packed Quesadillas

A great way to use what you already have at home.

Tip of the Day: Build meals around what is in your kitchen. Using simple ingredients helps keep meals affordable and reduces waste.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shredded cheese

• Whole wheat tortillas

• 1/2 cup spinach or kale (fresh or frozen)

• 1/2 cup mushrooms, chopped (can be replaced with any veggies you have on hand)

• Olive oil or spray for pan

Instructions:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with oil.

2. Place one tortilla in the pan.

3. Sprinkle cheese, spinach (or kale), and mushrooms evenly on top.

4. Place the second tortilla on top to make a sandwich.

5. Cook for 2鈥�3 minutes per side, or until the cheese melts and the tortilla is golden brown.

6. Remove from heat, let cool slightly, and cut into triangles.

Recipe Tip: Cook until the veggies are soft and the cheese is melted. Serve with salsa or plain Greek yogurt for a healthy dip.

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May 6 鈥� Summer Berry Yogurt Parfait

Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Tip of the Day: Swap sugary snacks for fruit and yogurt when you can. It is a simple way to make a healthier choice without changing your routine too much.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup low-fat yogurt

• 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced

• 1/2 cup blueberries

• 1/4 cup low-sugar granola or crushed whole grain cereal

Instructions:

1. In a cup or small bowl, add a spoonful of yogurt.

2. Add a layer of strawberries and blueberries.

3. Sprinkle a little granola or crushed cereal on top.

4. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.

5. Optional: Drizzle a little honey on top.

Recipe Tip: Let kids help layer the ingredients鈥攊t鈥檚 fun, hands-on, and encourages healthy eating!

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May 7 鈥� Homemade Dehydrated Fruit Snack

A naturally sweet treat for the whole family.

Tip of the Day: Make healthy food fun, especially for kids. Let them help prepare snacks or build their own meals to encourage better habits.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh strawberries

• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 200掳F.

2. Wash the strawberries and remove the leafy tops.

3. Cut strawberries in half.

4. Place the strawberries cut-side up on a baking tray. Leave space between them.

5. Sprinkle with a small pinch of salt.

6. Lower oven to 鈥淜eep Warm鈥� setting if your oven has it.

7. Place the tray in the oven. Bake for 3 hours total.

8. After 1.5 hours, flip the strawberries over.

9. Every 30 minutes, open the oven door for a few seconds to let heat and moisture out.

10. After 3 hours, remove strawberries and let them cool on a wire rack.

Recipe Tip: Cook them low and slow鈥攄on鈥檛 rush or overcrowd the tray. This helps them dry out instead of getting sticky or burnt. Opening the oven a little every half hour helps them dry evenly.

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May 8 鈥� Build-Your-Own Veggie Pizza

A fun way to get the whole family involved.

Tip of the Day: Let everyone build their own plate. This can help encourage trying new foods and make mealtime more enjoyable.

Ingredients:

• Whole grain pita or flatbread

• Tomato sauce

• Shredded mozzarella cheese

• Chopped veggies (like bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, olives)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375掳F.

2. Place pitas on a baking tray.

3. Spread tomato sauce on each pita.

4. Sprinkle with cheese.

5. Let each person add their favorite veggies.

6. Bake for 10鈥�12 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.

Recipe Tip: Chop veggies into small pieces so they cook faster and are easier for kids to add to their own pizza.

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May 9 鈥� Summer Salad Bar

Simple, flexible, and great for using leftovers.

Tip of the Day: Use what you already have. Leftovers and simple ingredients can turn into a healthy meal without extra cost.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups chopped lettuce or spinach

• 1/2 cup shredded carrots

• 1/2 cucumber, sliced

• 1/4 cup shredded cheese

• 1/2 cup cooked beans or a boiled egg

• Light vinaigrette or your favorite dressing

Instructions:

1. Place each ingredient in its own small bowl or section on a tray.

2. Let everyone build their own salad using the toppings they like.

3. Add dressing on top and enjoy as a meal or side dish.

Recipe Tip: Add a protein like chicken or sunflower seeds to help make your salad more filling.

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May 10 鈥� Fresh Fruit & Yogurt Brunch Board

A beautiful and healthy way to celebrate the moms in your life.

Tip of the Day: Healthy habits can include more than food. Take time to move your body, go for a walk, or take your mom on a walk to celebrate Mother鈥檚 Day and spend time together.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup grapes or berries

• 1 banana, sliced

• 1 apple or pear, sliced

• 1 cup low-fat yogurt

• 1/4 cup granola

• Optional: whole grain crackers or mini muffins

Instructions:

1. Arrange all the fruit slices neatly on a large tray or plate.

2. Place the bowl of yogurt in the center.

3. Sprinkle granola over the yogurt or serve on the side.

4. Add optional crackers or muffins for variety.

5. Let everyone build their own plate!

Recipe Tip: Use a big plate or cutting board to make it feel special. It鈥檚 simple, affordable, and perfect for a meaningful breakfast or snack with family.

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Celebrate Healthy Texan Week Your Way

Healthy Texan Week is about making small, realistic changes that fit your life. You do not need complicated recipes or expensive ingredients to eat well. Adding fruits and vegetables, making simple swaps, and staying active can help support your health over time.

Start with one small change today. It all adds up.

What Is a Colonoscopy? Why Colon Cancer Screening Matters

Colon cancer is one of the most common cancers. But it is also one of the most preventable.

Screening can help doctors find problems early before cancer starts or spreads.

One common screening test is called a colonoscopy.

This test lets doctors check the colon for growths that can turn into cancer. Finding and removing these growths can help keep you healthy.

What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy lets a doctor look inside your colon. The doctor uses a small camera on a flexible tube to check for

• Polyps (small growths)
• Irritation or swelling
• Signs of cancer
  

Some polyps can turn into cancer over time. Doctors can remove them during the test to help prevent colon cancer.

Who Should Get Colon Cancer Screening
Most people should begin screening around age 45. Your doctor may ask you to get screened before 45 if you:

• Have a family history of colon cancer.
• Have certain digestive conditions.
• Have had colon polyps before.
  

Talk to your doctor to decide what when you should get screened.

What to Expect During a Colonoscopy
Many people can feel nervous about the test. But screening is common and safe. During a colonoscopy:

• You receive medicine to help you relax.
• Most people feel little or no pain.
• The test usually takes less than 1 hour.
  

Your doctor will tell you what you need to do before getting tested.
 
Signs to Talk With Your Doctor About
Some symptoms should be checked by a doctor. Talk with your doctor if you have:

• Blood in your stool
• Stomach pain that will not go away
• Unexplained weight loss
• Changes in bowel habits
  

These symptoms do not always mean cancer. But you should still talk to your doctor if experience any of these symptoms.

Screening Saves Lives
Colon cancer often develops slowly. Screening helps doctors find problems early. Early treatment can lead to better health outcomes.

If you are age 45 or older, talk with your doctor about screening.

Need Help Finding a Doctor?
If you do not have a doctor or you need help finding one, we are here to help. Call us today.

• CHIP/STAR Members: 713.295.2294 or 1.888.760.2600 (TTY 7-1-1)
• STAR+PLUS Members: 713.295.2300 or 1.888.435.2850 (TTY 7-1-1)
• Marketplace Members: 713.295.6704 or 1.855.315.5386 (TTY 7-1-1)
• Medicare (D-SNP) Members: 713.295.5007 or 1.833.276.8306 (TTY 7-1-1)

Take Care of Your Wellness This Month

National Wellness Month is a great time to think about your health and make some positive changes. 羞羞视频 is here to help you on your wellness journey.

Wellness is about more than just your physical health. It also includes your mental, emotional, and social health. Taking care of all these parts of your health can help you feel better, have more energy, and manage any health conditions you may have.

This month, we suggest focusing on these key areas of wellness:

Physical Wellness

Taking care of your body is important. Here are some tips to improve your physical wellness:

• Get Moving: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. This can be things like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. Start small and work your way up.
• Eat Healthy: Focus on whole, nutritious foods like fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit processed foods, added sugars, and salt.
• Get Good Sleep: Most adults need 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
• Hydrate. Drink plenty of water. Your body is made up mostly of water. Water is important to help your body do its job.
• Get regular preventive exams. This includes seeing your doctor and dentist regularly.

Mental and Emotional Wellness

Your mental and emotional health are just as important as your physical health. Try these strategies to take care of your mind:

• Practice Mindfulness: Do activities like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling. These can help reduce stress and anxiety.
• Connect with Others: Spend time with friends and family. Joining a support group or community group can also help you feel connected.
• Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to talk to a mental health professional if you’re struggling. 羞羞视频 has resources to help.

Social Wellness

Healthy relationships are key to your overall wellness. Here are some ways to improve your social wellness:

• Volunteer: Giving back to your community can give you a sense of purpose and help you meet new people.
• Try a New Hobby: Doing activities you enjoy is a great way to meet new people and expand your social circle.
• Balance Work and Life: Set boundaries between your job and personal life to prevent burnout and make time for social activities.

Financial Wellness

Financial stress can impact your health. Take these steps to improve your financial wellness:

• Create a Budget: Track your income and expenses to see where you can cut back or save more.
• Pay Down Debt: Make a plan to pay off high-interest debt like credit cards or loans.
• Build Savings: Try to save 3-6 months’ worth of living expenses in a savings account.

Environmental Wellness

Your physical surroundings can also affect your wellness. Consider these ways to improve your environmental wellness:

• Get Organized: A clean, organized living and workspace can reduce stress.
• Spend Time in Nature: Connecting with nature, even a little, can be good for your mental and physical health.
• Be Eco-Friendly: Recycle, reduce energy use, and choose sustainable products.

Remember, wellness is an ongoing journey. By focusing on these areas, you can take steps towards better health and happiness. If you need support, reach out to the 羞羞视频 team at [phone number] or visit [website].

Sources:

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Tips for Asthma, Depression & ADHD

Taking your medicine, the right way is important for staying healthy, especially if you have asthma, depression, or ADHD. Missing doses or not taking it correctly can make you much sicker. Your medicine will not cure your condition, but it will help you feel better. Let’s learn how to make sure you take your medicine the way your doctor wants you to.

What Does “Taking Your Medicine the Right Way” Mean?

Taking your medicine, the right way, means taking the correct amount at the right time, and exactly as your doctor or nurse told you for as long as you are told to take it. This is important for managing long-term health issues. If you don’t take your medicine correctly, your symptoms might get worse, you might need to go to the hospital more often, and other health problems could result.

General Tips for Taking Your Medicine

• Keep a list of your medicines.
• Use a pill organizer or calendar.
• Set reminders.
• Get your refills on time.
• Talk to your doctor and pharmacist. Tell them about any problems you may be having.

Asthma: Keeping Your Lungs Happy

Asthma makes it hard to breathe because your airways get swollen and narrow. Medicine helps keep your asthma under control and stops bad attacks. Here are some common asthma medicines:

• Inhalers: These spray medicine directly into your lungs. It’s very important to learn the right way to use your inhaler from your doctor or pharmacist.
• Controllers: These medicines help prevent asthma attacks. You take them every day, even when you feel fine.
• Quick-relief medicines: These help when you’re having an asthma attack. They’re not supposed to replace your controller medicine.

Tips for Taking Asthma Medicine:

• Always carry your inhaler. That way, you can use it right away if you need to.
• Use a pill organizer or set alarms. This helps remind you to take your medicine on time.
• Ask questions! If you don’t understand something, ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain it.
• See your doctor regularly. Regular checkups will help manage your Asthma.

Depression: Feeling Better

Depression makes you feel sad and hopeless for a long time. Medicine, along with talking to a therapist, can really help. It’s important to keep taking your medicine even when you start to feel better. Stopping suddenly can make your depression come back. This is a journey, and you should work with your doctor.

Tips for Taking Depression Medicine:

• Know your medicine. Learn its name, how much to take, and what side effects it might cause. Ask your doctor or psychiatrist about anything you don’t understand.
• Find support. Talk to family, friends, or a therapist. Support groups can also be helpful.
• Track how you feel. There are apps and journals that can help you keep track of your mood and any side effects.
• Create a daily routine. This can make taking your medicine easier.
• Be patient. It might take some time to find the right medicine and dose for you. Don’t give up!

ADHD: Focusing Better

ADHD makes it hard to pay attention, focus, and control your impulses. Medicine can help manage these symptoms, but it doesn鈥檛 cure ADHD.

Tips for Taking ADHD Medicine:

• Create a system. Use a pill organizer or set alarms on your phone.
• Make it part of your routine. Take your medicine with breakfast or before school/work.
• Talk to your healthcare provider. Let them know if you have any problems or side effects.
• Get support. Find a support group or therapist to help you.
• Remember the long-term benefits. Even if the medicine has side effects, it helps you in the long run.

Remember, you’re not alone. If you’re having trouble taking your medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, family, friends, or a support group. Your health is important, and taking your medicine correctly can make a big difference.

Feeling Down After Having a Baby? You’re Not Alone

Having a new baby is a joyful time, but it can also be very hard. Many moms struggle with feelings of sadness, worry, and anxiety after giving birth. These are called postpartum depression and anxiety, and they are common problems that can be treated.

If you or someone you love is having a hard time after having a baby, it’s important to know the signs and get help. With the right support, you can feel better and enjoy this special time.

What are Postpartum Depression and Anxiety?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of depression that can happen after having a baby. It’s more than just the “baby blues” – PPD makes you feel very sad, hopeless, and empty. It can make it hard to take care of yourself and your baby.

Postpartum anxiety is another issue that new moms can face. With postpartum anxiety, you feel very worried and afraid about your baby’s health and your ability to care for them. This can cause physical symptoms like a racing heart, trouble sleeping, and nausea.

The “baby blues” are normal mood changes that many new moms have in the first few weeks after giving birth. But PPD and anxiety are more serious and last longer.

Spotting the Warning Signs

PPD and anxiety can start anytime in the first year after having a baby, but they are most common in the first few months. Some of the signs to watch for include:

• Feeling very sad, hopeless, or empty most of the time
• Crying a lot or feeling irritable
• Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
• Having a hard time bonding with your baby
• Big changes in your appetite or sleep
• Worrying a lot about your baby’s health and safety
• Panic attacks or upsetting thoughts
• Trouble concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

Every mom’s experience is different. Not everyone will have the same symptoms, and the problems can range from mild to severe. If you’re not sure if what you’re feeling is normal, talk to your doctor.

Getting the Help You Need

If you’re struggling with PPD or anxiety, know that you don’t have to deal with it alone. The first step is to talk to your doctor. They can evaluate how you’re feeling and connect you with the right treatment.

It’s also important to have a strong support system of family and friends who can help with tasks like cooking, cleaning, and caring for the baby. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Reaching Out for Support

Many women feel ashamed or afraid to admit they’re struggling with postpartum issues. But these are real medical conditions, not personal failures. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Remember, you don’t have to suffer in silence. With the right support and treatment, you can overcome PPD and anxiety and enjoy this special time with your new baby.

Resources for Support

If you or someone you know is dealing with postpartum depression or anxiety, here are some places to find help:

• Postpartum Support International Helpline: 1.800.944.4773
• Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1.833.943.5746

You can also talk to your doctor, midwife, or pediatrician about local support services in your area. Remember, you don’t have to face this alone

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Keep Your Child Healthy: Why Checkups and Vaccines Matter

As a parent, you want to keep your child safe. One way to do that is by making sure they get their well-child checkups and stay up to date on shots.

What Are Well-Child Visits?
Well-child visits are doctor鈥檚 visits where your child鈥檚 doctor checks their growth, development, and health. These visits are important for helping your child stay on track.

These visits are a great time to ask your child鈥檚 doctor any questions you may have. Some things that you can ask about are your child鈥檚 sleep, behavior, diet, or milestones.

During these visits, your child may also get shots that keep them safe against diseases. Your child鈥檚 doctor will tell you which shots your child needs at each age. They can also answer any questions you have.
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Why Vaccines Are Important
Vaccines help keep your child safe from things like measles, chickenpox, polio, and whooping cough. Getting their vaccines on time keeps your child healthy. It can also help protect other people too.

Many schools and daycares require vaccines before your child starts. Staying on schedule will help you not stress when it is time to enroll your child.

Don鈥檛 Wait, Schedule a Visit
If your child has missed a checkup or vaccine, don鈥檛 worry. Just call your doctor鈥檚 office to make an appointment and get back on track.

Need Help Finding a Doctor?
If you don鈥檛 have a doctor or need help finding one, we鈥檙e here to help. Call us today.

听听CHIP/STAR Members:听713.295.2294 or 1.888.760.2600 (TTY 7-1-1)

• STAR+PLUS Members:听713.295.2300 or 1.888.435.2850 (TTY 7-1-1)
• Marketplace Members:听713.295.6704 or 1.855.315.5386 (TTY 7-1-1)
• Medicare (D-SNP) Members:听713.295.5007 or 1.833.276.8306 (TTY 7-1-1)听

June is Men鈥檚 Health Month. This month is a reminder for men to take care of their health. Many men take care of their families, work long hours, and handle a lot, but don鈥檛 always check in on their own health. Men鈥檚 Health Month is the perfect time to change that, even if it鈥檚 just by taking one small step.

Why Men鈥檚 Health Matters

Men often wait too long to go to the doctor. They may skip checkups or ignore signs that something isn鈥檛 right. But many health problems, like heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, can be caught early. When you find these issues early, they are easier to treat.

Taking care of your mental health is just as important. If you鈥檝e been feeling stressed, angry, tired all the time, or just not like yourself, it鈥檚 okay to talk to someone. Getting support doesn鈥檛 make you weak. It means you care about your life and your future.

What Should You Be Checking?

These are some of the most common checkups your doctor may talk to you about:

• Blood pressure: High blood pressure can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
• Cholesterol: Too much (high) cholesterol can block blood flow.
• Blood sugar (for diabetes): High sugar (glucose) levels can harm your heart, eyes, kidneys, and cause nerve damage.
• Colon cancer screening: Usually starts around age 45 but talk to your doctor about when you should get checked.
• Prostate cancer screening: Ask your doctor when you should get checked.
• Mental health: If you鈥檙e feeling down or overwhelmed, talk to your doctor or a counselor.

Start with One Step

You don鈥檛 need to fix everything at once. Start with one simple thing. You can make a doctor鈥檚 appointment, go for a short walk, skip fried food for one meal, or reach out to a friend to talk. These small steps add up over time. The goal is to start taking care of your health. Taking small steps is the key.

Need Help? You鈥檙e Not Alone

If you need help finding a doctor, you can call us:

• CHIP/STAR Members:听713.295.2294 or 1.888.760.2600 (TTY 7-1-1)
• STAR+PLUS Members:听713.295.2300 or 1.888.435.2850 (TTY 7-1-1)
• Marketplace Members:听713.295.6704 or 1.855.315.5386 (TTY 7-1-1)
• Medicare (D-SNP) Members:听713.295.5007 or 1.833.276.8306 (TTY 7-1-1)听

You don鈥檛 have to do everything. Just do something. One step is a good place to start.

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Hurricane Season: Be Prepared, Not Scared

When a hurricane is on the way, it’s natural to feel worried. But don’t let fear stop you from getting ready. With a little planning, you can make sure you and your family stay safe and healthy, no matter what the storm brings.

Make a Plan

The key to hurricane preparedness is having a plan. Gather your family and go through these important steps:

1. Know Your Evacuation Zone – Find out if you live in an evacuation zone. This information is usually available on your city or county’s emergency management website. If you do need to evacuate, know your routes and have a backup plan in case your main route is blocked.
2. Plan for Medical Needs – Make sure you have enough of your prescription medications to last at least 2 weeks. Also, get copies of your medical records and a list of your current medications, dosages, and healthcare providers. If you use medical equipment that requires electricity, have a backup power source ready. In addition, it may be helpful to have a cooler and ice for medication that requires refrigeration. Know of emergency centers for unique needs such as dialysis. Find ways to manage stress during an event because anxiety can make medical conditions worse.
3. Gather Supplies – Build an emergency kit with:

• Water (1 gallon per person per day for at least 7 days)
• Non-perishable food for at least 7 days
• Manual can opener
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• First aid kit
• Prescription medications
• Cash in small bills
• Copies of important documents

4. Decide on an Evacuation Location – Choose a friend or family member who lives outside the hurricane’s path to stay with, or research nearby shelters or hotels that can accommodate your medical needs.
5. Make a Communication Plan – Decide how you’ll stay in touch with loved ones before, during, and after the storm. Identify a single point of contact who lives outside the hurricane’s path.

Before the Storm Arrives

If an evacuation order is issued for your area, don’t wait – leave as soon as possible. Waiting until the last minute can be very dangerous.

If you don鈥檛 live in an evacuation zone, stay inside a well-built structure. Avoid windows, and be prepared to shelter in a small, interior room to stay safe from high winds.

If the power goes out, use your emergency supplies. Extend your phone’s battery by limiting use to only the most important calls. And never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside your home or garage – this can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide buildup.

After the Storm

Once the hurricane has passed, it’s time to assess the damage and get the help you need.

• Check on Your Home – Carefully inspect your home for any structural damage, leaks, or other issues that could make it unsafe. If you have any doubts, contact a professional for an inspection.
• Restore Power Safely – If the power is out, only use generators, grills, etc. outdoors and far away from windows, doors, and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
• Replace Medications – If you lost any prescription medications, contact your doctor or pharmacy right away to get refills.

Stay Informed

To stay up-to-date on hurricane preparedness and response, follow these reliable sources:

• – Hurricane preparedness tips for people with disabilities from the U.S. government
• – Hurricane tips and resources from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• – Checklists, guides, and more from the American Red Cross

Remember, being prepared doesn’t mean being scared. With the right plan in place, you can weather any storm and keep yourself and your family safe. Stay strong, stay resilient, and stay safe.

You鈥檙e Not Alone: Mental Health During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can be exciting, but it can also be hard. Many people feel sad, nervous, or overwhelmed while they鈥檙e pregnant or after having a baby. These feelings are normal, but sometimes they can be a sign of a mental health condition like depression or anxiety.

It鈥檚 important to know what to look for and when to ask for help.

What is Perinatal Mental Health?
Perinatal mental health is how someone feels before, during, and after pregnancy. It includes how they think, feel, and act. When mental health changes in a way that makes daily life harder, it might mean there鈥檚 a bigger problem.

Common Conditions
Some people may have:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
• OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder)
• PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)
• Postpartum psychosis (a rare but serious condition)
• These conditions can start at any time鈥攆rom early pregnancy to the first year after birth.

Warning Signs
Some changes are normal, but if they last more than two weeks, you may need to talk to a doctor. Watch for:

• Feeling very sad or worried
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Not wanting to eat or eating too much
• Not bonding with the baby
• Feeling like a bad parent
• Scary or confusing thoughts
• Feeling dizzy, shaky, or like your heart is racing

You know your body and your mind better than anyone else. If something doesn鈥檛 feel right, speak up.

Why It Matters
Taking care of your mental health helps you and your baby. If you don鈥檛 feel well, it can affect your baby鈥檚 health and your family, too. The good news is that help is available.

You Are Not Alone
Many people go through this. Asking for help shows strength, not weakness. Talk to your doctor, reach out to a friend, or contact us at 羞羞视频. If you need help finding a doctor, you can call us:

• Marketplace Members:听713.295.6704 or 1.855.315.5386 (TTY 7-1-1)
• Medicare (D-SNP) Members:听713.295.5007 or 1.833.276.8306 (TTY 7-1-1)听

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