As many as 1 in 5 women are affected by poor mental health during pregnancy, and the year after birth.
Having a baby is a big life event, and it’s natural to experience a range of emotions and reactions during and after your pregnancy. However, it might start to become a mental health problem if it’s having a big impact on how you live your life.
This might be the first time you’ve experienced this, or it could be a continuation of a mental health problem you’ve faced before. These are known as perinatal mental health problems.
You can find more information about causes, sources of treatment and advice for you, and for your friends and family here.
Tips for looking after your mental health:
| Be open and honest about how you are feeling |
Let your partner, family, friends and health professionals know how you are feeling. It’s ok not to be ok.
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| Talking |
Talking to a supportive trusted adult is good for our mental health. If you feel things are building up talk to your GP, health visitor or midwife.
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| Build your support network |
Talking to other new mothers and fathers, and finding that other new parents share the anxieties and frustrations you are experiencing, can be very reassuring. It can also give you a chance to share skills and experiences.
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| Looking after yourself |
Take care of yourself, and have some ‘me’ time to do the things that you enjoy. If you feel good you’ll feel more able to manage and care for your baby.
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| Accept help offered | It’s hard being a parent 24/7 and you’re allowed time off. |
How can loved ones help?
Loved ones can help by:
- Giving time and space to talk about how they are feeling
- Not being dismissive of what they are saying
- Arranging for the parent to have some ‘me time’
- Encouraging them to spend time with other family and friends
- Supporting them to go to appointments with doctors or other professionals
- Helping them to avoid spending long periods of time on their own
- Offer practical support around the house
Treatment
There are many health professionals who you can talk to about your mental health, and who can provide you with support in several different ways. These may include general health and pregnancy support services such as your GP, antenatal care with your midwife or obstetrician and your health visitor.
Signposting
- SAMH understanding postnatal depression and perinatal mental health
- PaNDAS provide a free helpline to parents experiencing helplessness, low mood, and anxiety or have concerns about their health during and beyond pregnancy.
- Childline young parents
- Maternal Mental Health Alliance
- FFLAG are a national voluntary organisation and charity dedicated to supporting families and their LGBT+ loved ones
- Parent and Infant Mental Health Scotland