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Cheshire and Mersey Specialist Perinatal Service (CWP Local Team) :: Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust

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The Cheshire and Mersey Specialist Perinatal Service provides important mental health assessment and support for local women experiencing moderate to severe mental health issues during this time.

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Help and emotional support for parents during pregnancy and the first year after birth

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Help and emotional support for parents during pregnancy and the first year after birth

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We found out we were expecting Everley-Quinn on 25th January 2020. The whole pregnancy journey was up and down due to my wife's underlying health condition and the lockdown restrictions. We had a miscarriage last year, which was upsetting for both myself and my wife, but we knew we wanted another child, and decided to try again.

For me, being in lockdown during the pregnancy was really difficult. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to go to the 12-week scan with my wife. After going through a previous miscarriage, I was so nervous about it and even more so that I couldn't go with her to the scan. All I could do was wait for a phone call to say everything was okay.

Missing out on all the scans and doctors appointments during the pregnancy made me feel very disconnected from the baby. Yes, I could feel her move sometimes, but for me it just didn't feel the same as with the other two pregnancies.

Near the end of the pregnancy, my wife had reduced movements. I wasn't able to go into the hospital and had to wait in the car. Eventually, I went home and within 20 minutes or so I got a phone call to say she was going to be induced and I could go back to be with her.

Managing mental health

Since becoming a dad, it's been a rollercoaster of a ride. With my oldest, I was fine. I had down days, where I felt I didn't know what I was doing, but that didn't get me down too much. My second child Aurelia suffered from cmpa but we didn't get told till around 6 months. During this time, my mental health took a massive turn. My wife noticed I was down a lot and said speaking to someone could help, so I contacted the doctor. They recommended I started taking some medication to help and I ended up doing some counselling as well. It felt uncomfortable at first, but I'm so glad I did it.

I actually feel that being in lockdown and having more time together since Everley-Quinn was born has definitely helped me and my wife be in a better place, both mentally and emotionally. Generally, if I am finding things difficult to copy with, I try to get out of the situation for a while. I go for a walk and clear my head. I think it helps to just talk to people, even if I don't know them, and not even about the problems or feelings themselves.

Connecting with other dads

I never thought I would be a guy to open up on social media and talk to other people about issues like this. But I'm glad I did. I started up a social media account as a bit of a joke, to see if I could get more followers than my wife. I started following more dads and mums online, and have found that it helps so much talking to other parents. I found a dad's app as well called Dad AF, which is fantastic if I need to vent or ask for advice.

I didn't open up about my mental health until my wife was 6 months pregnant with our third baby. I personally would say to any dads out there, find a support network. Talk to your mates who are already dads and if you don't know many, search for others via social media or support groups. There are so many out there willing to talk and not just about their kids. I'm part of a dad's live chat every week. It's not as lonely as you first think.

Organisations to support dads and partners

Mind

You can contact Mind's Infoline 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday on 0300 123 3393.
Text them on 86463, or email[email protected] .

CALM

The Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) offer support to any man who is down or in crisis online, over the phone on 0800 58 58 58, or on webchat.

PANDAS Dads

PANDAS Dads have a private Facebook support group to help dads going through and anxiety and/or those who are supporting their partner with perinatal mental illness.

Samaritans

Day or night, Samaritans are there if you need to talk. Call them on 116 123.

SMS4dads

SMS4dads gives dads information and connects them to online services by text. As well as this, every three weeks you get an interactive 'How's it going?" message. Give it a try.

Dad AF

The Dad AF app is a digital support network for Dads from those at the pregnancy stage; through to those with teenage children.

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Reaching out to other dads for support during pregnancy and beyond

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We found out we were expecting Everley-Quinn on 25th January 2020. The whole pregnancy journey was up and down due to my wife's underlying health condition and the lockdown restrictions. We had a miscarriage last year, which was upsetting for both myself and my wife, but we knew we wanted another child, and decided to try again.

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We continue to follow government guidelines, meaning we are still unable to do home visits. We are however open for referrals to all of our services, just call us on 0151 608 8288 or email admin@koalanw.co.uk. Groups and Parenting Courses are running again, with a booking system in place for all groups/courses.

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OpenPAWS - Perinatal Anxiety & Worry Support

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Perinatal Anxiety and Covid-19 Our research suggests that perinatal anxiety and stress is likely to be higher than usual during the coronavirus (covid-19) pandemic. To help with this, we have put together some information about things you can try to help keep anxiety at bay.

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Perinatal Positivity - English subtitles original (with bottle)

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Parent resources

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We have a growing number of regional hubs.

Hubs bring infant mental health practitioners together in communities of practice.

AIMH UK seeks to support the professional development of all practitioners involved in promoting infant mental health.

We organise meetings, conferences and online events, and provide a range of advice, updates and resources.

If your professional work is concerned with babies and infants from conception to age three, or with their parents or carers, then join AiMH UK.

I will have no recollection of this time, but it will affect me for the rest of my life

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Association for Infant Mental Health UK | AiMH UK

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We have a growing number of regional hubs. Hubs bring infant mental health practitioners together in communities of practice. AIMH UK seeks to support the professional development of all practitioners involved in promoting infant mental health. We organise meetings, conferences and online events, and provide a range of advice, updates and resources.

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Peer support groups for young parents and their children, designed to enhance young mothers' life chances and promote maternal mental health and wellbeing.

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Postnatal depression (PND) is a type of depression that many parents experience after having a baby. It can affect any parent, regardless of whether they've suffered from a mental health condition before. Postnatal depression is linked directly to giving birth and is a common problem, affecting 1 in 10 women within a year of giving birth.

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Help and emotional support for parents during pregnancy and the first year after birth

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Help and emotional support for parents during pregnancy and the first year after birth

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The Birth Trauma Association

If you're a parent who's been traumatised by birth, we're here to help. We have a team of peer supporters: parents (one of whom is a dad) who have all experienced traumatic birth themselves and been through a process of recovery. If you'd like to talk to them over email about your experience, please contact them at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone them on 0203 621 6338.

You can also join our Facebook group for parents with birth trauma: www.facebook.com/groups/TheBta

We find that parents who come to us often have the same questions, so we've prepared some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) documents you can download. They are:
How do I access my birth notes? How do I access therapy to help me recover from my birth trauma? How do I ask for a debrief? How do I make a complaint about my maternity care? How do I take legal action against the hospital where I gave birth? I want to avoid another traumatic birth. What can I do and what are my rights?
If you want to find out more about birth trauma, our package of three training videos can help.

Birth can be traumatic for all sorts of reasons. It could be that you were left in pain for hours, or your baby's heartrate dropped and you needed an emergency caesarean section. Perhaps you had a difficult forceps birth leaving you with severe tears. Perhaps you had a postpartum haemorrhage, or your baby was born ill, needing to spend time in special care.

There may have been times during labour when you felt that staff didn't look after you properly, or didn't listen to you, and you felt alone and frightened.

And afterwards, even your baby is well, those feelings don't always go away. Research shows that about 4-5% of women who give birth develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares and extreme anxiety that makes daily life immensely challenging. That's about 30,000 women a year in the UK. Many more have some trauma symptoms, but not enough for a PTSD diagnosis. We use the term "birth trauma" to cover everyone who feels that their traumatic birth is continuing to affect them.

Fathers and partners can develop PTSD as a result of witnessing a traumatic birth. They need help too.

In the video below, five women talk about their experience of birth trauma and how they found help.

Keep up to date with The Birth Trauma Association (BTA) on social media

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The Birth Trauma Association (BTA) supports all women who have had a traumatic birth experience. It is estimated that, in the UK alone, this may result in 10,000 women a year developing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

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BUMP is coming online!

Bump will be running now as an online course initially starting on zoom on Wednesday 10 th February 1-3pm and aimed at pregnant women who want to improve and maintain their wellbeing and mental health.

It will be a six session course run in conjunction with Milestone Mums.

We are very lucky to be working in partnership with the fantastic Milestone Mums group who support Mums with children up to 3 years old

The project will be held in a venue in Ellesmere Port and will be aimed at any pregnant Mums who want to look at improving their wellbeing and maintaining their mental health with the arrival of a new baby and beyond.

BUMP, six informal, small group sessions for one hour each.

You'll be able to:

Meet other Mums to be in their area

Look at themes to improve their wellbeing

Explore and plan their own wellbeing and self-care

Share experiences and support

Take part in creative and discussion-based projects

Have some fun me time with like-minded people

Find out about support available for Mums in the local area

When & Where?

First session starting Wednesday 10 th February 2021

1-3pm Online via ZOOM

Contact Sally at Chapter, or Sarah for more information

Or call

Sally on 07853 026 526 (Available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)

Or book on via our

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BUMP is coming online! Bump will be running now as an online course initially starting on zoom on Wednesday 10th February 1-3pm and aimed at pregnant women who want to improve and maintain their wellbeing and mental health. It will be a six session course run in conjunction with Milestone Mums. We are very lucky [...]

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Preparing to give birth

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The Perinatal Mental Health Partnership are the founders of the UK Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week . The next event will take place 2-8 May 2022.

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Becoming a mum

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'Perinatal' means the time from the start of your pregnancy up to roughly one year after giving birth. The word has two parts:

peri meaning 'around'

natal meaning 'birth'.

You might also hear other terms used to describe the times before or after giving birth:

Antenatal or prenatal meaning 'before birth'. This refers to the time when you are pregnant.

Postnatal or postpartum meaning 'after birth'. This refers to the first year after giving birth.

There's no right or wrong word to describe the period of time around pregnancy and after giving birth. You might hear your doctor or midwife use any of these terms.

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'Perinatal' means the time from the start of your pregnancy up to roughly one year after giving birth. The word has two parts: peri meaning 'around' natal meaning 'birth'. You might also hear other terms used to describe the times before or after giving birth: Antenatal or prenatal meaning 'before birth'.

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Where to get support for postnatal depression

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Where to get support for postnatal depression

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If you think you may be experiencing postnatal depression make sure that you seek support and help.

Speak to your partner, a family member or friend and seek support from your midwife, health visitor or GP.

Here are some organisations that can offer additional information and support.

NCT

MIND

NHS

PANDA

This is a great quick reference image regarding common signs of post natal depression. Remember that PND can affect both men and women and an awareness of the signs can lead to quick recognition and treatment.

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Becoming a parent

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Postnatal depression is a type of depression that many parents experience after having a baby.
It's a common problem, affecting more than 1 in every 10 women within a year of giving birth. It can also affect fathers and partners.

It's important to get help as soon as possible if you think you might be depressed, as your symptoms could last for months or get worse and have a significant impact on you, your baby and your family.

With the right support most people make a full recovery.

Depression during pregnancy

Depression in pregnancy (antenatal depression) is also common, affecting more than 1 in 10 women.

Other mental health symptoms that can occur during or after your pregnancy include anxiety, panic attacks and psychosis.
Read more about mental health in pregnancy

Symptoms of postnatal depression

Many women feel a bit down, tearful or anxious in the first week after giving birth.

This is often called the " baby blues" and is so common that it's considered normal.

The "baby blues" do not last for more than 2 weeks after giving birth.

If your symptoms last longer or start later, you could have postnatal depression.

Postnatal depression can start any time in the first year after giving birth.

Signs that you or someone you know might be depressed include:

a persistent feeling of sadness and low mood

lack of enjoyment and loss of interest in the wider world

lack of energy and feeling tired all the time

trouble sleeping at night and feeling sleepy during the day

finding it difficult to look after yourself and your baby

withdrawing from contact with other people

problems concentrating and making decisions

frightening thoughts - for example, about hurting your baby

Many women do not realise they have postnatal depression because it can develop gradually.

Speak to a GP, midwife or health visitor as soon as possible if:

you think you may be depressed

Many midwives and health visitors have been trained to recognise postnatal depression and have techniques that can help.

Remember that:

a range of help and support is available, including talking therapy

depression is an illness like any other

it's not your fault you're depressed - it can happen to anyone

being depressed does not mean you're a bad parent

it does not mean you're going mad

your baby will not be taken away from you - babies are only taken into care in very exceptional circumstances

Treatments for postnatal depression

Postnatal depression can be lonely, distressing and frightening, but support and effective treatments are available.

These include:

self-help - things you can try yourself include talking to your family and friends about your feelings and what they can do to help, making time for yourself to do things you enjoy, resting whenever you get the chance, getting as much sleep as you can at night, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet

talking therapy - a GP may be able to recommend a self-help course or may refer you for a course of therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

antidepressants - these may be recommended if your depression is more severe or other treatments have not helped; your doctor can prescribe a medicine that's safe to take while breastfeeding

Local and national organisations, such as the Association for Post Natal Illness (APNI) and Pre and Postnatal Depression Advice and Support (PANDAS), can also be useful sources of help and advice.

Causes of postnatal depression

The cause of postnatal depression is not completely clear.

There are a number of things that may make you more likely to have postnatal depression. These include:

a history of mental health problems, particularly depression, earlier in life

a history of mental health problems during pregnancy

having no close family or friends to support you

a difficult relationship with your partner

recent stressful life events, such as a bereavement

physical or psychological trauma, such as domestic violence

Even if you do not have any of these, having a baby is a life-changing event that can sometimes trigger depression.

It often takes time to adapt to becoming a new parent. Looking after a baby can be stressful and exhausting.

Preventing postnatal depression

There are things you can do during pregnancy to help you keep well, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle and having someone you can talk to and turn to for support.

Going to antenatal classes and making friends with other pregnant women or new parents can also be helpful.

If you are pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant, talk to a GP or your mental health team if:

you have a history of depression or mental health problems

someone in your family has had mental health problems after childbirth (for example, your mother or sister)

This is so they can offer you appropriate treatment.

You can also talk to a midwife, who can support you or refer you to specialist mental health services if needed. If you have had a mental health problem while pregnant, your doctor should arrange for you to be seen regularly in the first few weeks after birth.

The mental health team, maternity team and GP will work closely with you during your pregnancy and after you have given birth.

Myths about postnatal depression

Postnatal depression is often misunderstood and there are many myths surrounding it.

These include:

postnatal depression is less severe than other types of depression - in fact, it's as serious as other types of depression

postnatal depression is entirely caused by hormonal changes - it's actually caused by many different factors

postnatal depression will soon pass - unlike the "baby blues", postnatal depression can persist for months if left untreated and in a minority of cases it can become a long-term problem

postnatal depression only affects women - research has actually found that up to 1 in 10 new fathers become depressed after having a baby

These factors are equally true of antenatal depression.

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Postnatal depression is a type of depression that many parents experience after having a baby. It's a common problem, affecting more than 1 in every 10 women within a year of giving birth. It can also affect fathers and partners.

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This information is for anyone who wants to know more about postnatal depression (PND for short).

We hope it will be helpful to:

women who have, or think they might have postnatal depression

pregnant women who are worried about getting postnatal depression

partners, family and friends.

Disclaimer

This leaflet provides information, not advice.

The content in this leaflet is provided for general information only. It is not intended to, and does not, mount to advice which you should rely on. It is not in any way an alternative to specific advice.

You must therefore obtain the relevant professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action based on the information in this leaflet.

If you have questions about any medical matter, you should consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider without delay.

If you think you are experiencing any medical condition you should seek immediate medical attention from a doctor or other professional healthcare provider.

Although we make reasonable efforts to compile accurate information in our leaflets and to update the information in our leaflets, we make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that the content in this leaflet is accurate, complete or up to date.

Postnatal Depression is a depressive illness which affects between 10 to 15 in every 100 women having a baby. ¹ The symptoms are similar to those in depression at other times. ² These include low mood and other symptoms lasting at least two weeks. Depending on the severity, you may struggle to look after yourself and your baby. You may find simple tasks difficult to manage.

Sometimes there is an obvious reason for PND, but not always. You may feel distressed, or guilty for feeling like this, as you expected to be happy about having a baby. However, PND can happen to anyone and it is not your fault.

It's never too late to seek help. Even if you have been depressed for a while, you can get better. The help you need depends on how severe your illness is. Mild PND can be helped by increased support from family and friends.

If you are more unwell, you will need help from your GP and health visitor. If your PND is severe, you may need care and treatment from a mental health service.

The timing varies. PND often starts within one or two months of giving birth. It can start several months after having a baby. About a third of women with PND have symptoms which started in pregnancy and continue after birth. ³

You may have some or all of the following symptoms:

Depressed

You feel low, unhappy and tearful for much or all of the time. You may feel worse at certain times of the day, like mornings or evenings.

Irritable

You may get irritable or angry with your partner, baby or other children.

Tired

All new mothers get pretty tired. Depression can make you feel utterly exhausted and lacking in energy.

Sleepless

Even though you are tired, you can't fall asleep. You may lie awake worrying about things. You wake during the night even when your baby is asleep. You may wake very early, before your baby wakes up.

Appetite changes

You may lose your appetite and forget to eat. Some women eat for comfort and then feel bad about gaining weight.

Unable to enjoy anything

You find that you can't enjoy or be interested in anything. You may not enjoy being with your baby.

Loss of interest in sex

There are several reasons why you lose interest in sex after having a baby. It may be painful or you may be too tired. PND can take away any desire. Your partner may not understand this and feel rejected.

Negative and guilty thoughts

Depression changes your thinking:

you may have very negative thoughts

you might think that you are not a good mother or that your baby doesn't love you

you may feel guilty for feeling like this or that this is your fault

you may lose your confidence

you might think you can't cope with things.

Most new mothers worry about their babies' health. If you have PND, the anxiety can be overwhelming. You may worry that:

your baby is very ill

your baby is not putting on enough weight

nowhere is clean or safe enough for your baby

your baby is crying too much and you can't settle him/her

your baby is too quiet and might have stopped breathing

you might harm your baby

you have a physical illness

your PND will never get better.

You may be so worried that you are afraid to be left alone with your baby. You may need re-assurance from your partner, health visitor or GP.

When you feel anxious, you may have some of the following:

racing pulse

thumping heart

breathless

sweating

fear that you may have a heart attack or collapse.

You may avoid situations, such as crowded shops because you are afraid of having panic symptoms.

Avoid other people

You may not want to see friends and family. You might find it hard to go to postnatal support groups. You may agree to go out and then make excuses at short notice.

Hopeless

You may feel that things will never get better. You may think that life is not worth living. You may even wonder whether your family would be better off without you.

Thoughts of suicide and self harm

If you have thoughts about harming yourself, you should ask your doctor for help. If you have a strong urge to harm yourself, seek urgent help (see below).

Psychotic symptoms

A small number of women with very severe depression develop psychotic symptoms. They may hear voices and have unusual beliefs. If this happens, you should seek help urgently (see below).

You may feel guilty that you don't feel the way you expected to.

You may or may not love your baby.

You may not feel close to your baby.

You might find it hard to work out what your baby is feeling, or what your baby needs.

You may resent the baby or blame the baby for the way you feel.

You may feel as if you are missing out on motherhood.

Depressed mothers often worry that they might do this, but it is very rare. Occasionally, through utter tiredness and desperation, you might feel like hitting or shaking your baby. Many mothers (and fathers) occasionally feel like this, not just those with PND. In spite of having these feelings at times, most mothers never act on them. If you do feel like this, tell someone.

Women often worry that if they tell someone how they feel, their baby may be taken away. Actually your GP, health visitor and midwife will want to help you get better. This will mean that you can enjoy and care for your baby at home. They can provide you with support and information so you can do this.

Having a baby is a time of huge change. It is common to feel many different emotions. Not everyone gets a depressive illness.

Over half of new mothers will experience the 'Baby Blues'. ⁴ This usually starts 3 to 4 days after birth. You may have mood swings. You may burst into tears easily. You can feel irritable, low and anxious at times. You may also over-react to things. It usually stops by the time your baby is about 10 days old. Women with baby blues do not need treatment. If it continues for more than 2 weeks, tell your health visitor or GP. They can check whether you have PND.

Depression and are the most common mental health problems in pregnancy. They affect 10-15 in every 100 women.1,5 Depression in pregnancy can be helped in much the same way as postnatal depression. Women also experience a range of other mental health problems during pregnancy, just like at other times. See our page onmental health in pregnancy.

Postpartum (puerperal) psychosis
This is the most severe type of mental illness that happens after having a baby. It affects around 1 in 1000 women ⁶ and starts within days or weeks of childbirth. It can develop in a few hours and can be life-threatening, so needs urgent treatment.

There are many symptoms that may occur. Your mood may be high or low and there are often rapid mood swings. Women often experience psychotic symptoms. They may believe things that are not true (delusions) or see or hear things that are not there (hallucinations).

This illness always needs medical help and support. You may have to go into hospital. Ideally, this should be to a specialist mother and baby unit where your baby can go with you.

Women who have had previous episodes of severe mental illness, particularly bipolar disorder, are at a high risk of postpartum psychosis. You also have a high risk if you have had Postpartum Psychosis before. Let your doctor or midwife know about this. You can discuss with them ways to increase the chances of you staying well. Although postpartum psychosis is a serious condition, women usually recover completely. For more information see our page onPostpartum Psychosis.

Perinatal Obsessive Compulsive Disorder affects 2-3 in every 100 women after having a baby. ⁷ Women have anxious thoughts or images which keep coming into their mind (obsessions). These thoughts often focus on the possibility of the baby being harmed. The thoughts cause anxiety. Women may also keep repeating thoughts or actions in an attempt to reduce this anxiety (compulsions). Treatment is with Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and/or medication. For more information see our page onPerinatal OCD.

Other mental health problems after childbirth

You may have had a mental illness before pregnancy. Your symptoms may get worse or return after your baby is born. Just as at other times, women can experience many types of mental health problems. If you are worried about any type of mental illness, discuss this with your GP. They can make sure you get the help and support you need.

Many possible causes for PND have been suggested. There is probably no single reason, but a number of different stresses may add up to cause it.

You are more likely to have PND if you have ²:

Previous mental health problems, including depression

Depression or anxiety during pregnancy

Poor support from partner, family or friends - or marital difficulties

A recent stressful event - e.g. death of someone close to you, relationship ending, losing a job.

Experienced domestic violence or previous abuse

Arrived in a developed country as a refugee or to seek asylum

There may be a physical cause for your depression, such as an underactive thyroid or low levels of vitamin B12. These can be easily treated.

PND can start for no obvious reason, without any of these causes. Also having these problems does not mean that you will definitely have PND.

Several interventions have been shown to prevent Postnatal Depression. These include:

Telephone support from other women who have had Postnatal Depression⁸

Home visits by health professionals⁸

Interpersonal Psychotherapy⁸

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy⁹

Not enough research has been done to make it clear whether antidepressants prevent depression. ¹⁰

The following are suggestions that may help to keep you well.

Don't try to be 'superwoman'. Try to do less and make sure that you don't get over-tired.

Do make friends with other women who are pregnant or have just had a baby. It may be more difficult to make new friends if you get PND.

Do find someone you can talk to. If you don't have a close friend you can turn to, you can find support through one of the organisations at the end of this page.

Do go to antenatal classes. If you have a partner, take them with you. If not take a friend or relative.

Don't stop antidepressant medication during pregnancy without advice. You are more likely to relapse if you have had severe depression¹¹, several episodes or a recent episode.¹² You need to discuss the risks and benefits of continuing treatment in pregnancy and breastfeeding with your GP or psychiatrist.

Do keep in touch with your GP and your health visitor if you have had depression before. Any signs of depression in pregnancy or PND can be recognised early.

Do make sure that you have treatment for depression in pregnancy. This may be a talking therapy or medication.

Do accept offers of help from friends and family.

Do tell others how you are feeling. You may be surprised how many people feel or have felt the same way.

Do make a Wellbeing Plan - this helps you to start thinking about the support you might need in your pregnancy and after the birth. You can download a Wellbeing Plan template from the Tommy's charity website (www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/health-professionals/free-pregnancy-resources/wellbeing-plan)

The first thing is to recognise you have had a depressive illness. Don't dismiss it as the 'baby blues'. Don't assume it's normal to feel like this when coping with a baby.

There are lots of reasons why women delay seeking help. You may:

not realise what is wrong

worry about what other people think

feel ashamed to admit that you are not enjoying being a mother.

Some women worry that their baby will be taken away. In fact, you are doing what is best for your baby and for yourself by getting help for your PND. Doctors and health visitors want to get the care you need so you can look after your baby.

People are now more aware of depression in general. This means PND shouldn't be missed so often.

Doctors, midwives and health visitors usually ask new mothers about their mental health. They may ask you to fill in a questionnaire or ask the following questions:

During the last month, have you been bothered by feeling down, depressed or hopeless?

During the last month, have you been bothered by having little interest in pleasure or in doing things?

Is this something you feel you need or want help with?

It is important to answer these questions honestly so that you can be offered help if you need it. If your answers suggest you might have PND, you should see your GP. Your GP will need to ask more questions to confirm the diagnosis.

The help and treatment you need depends on how severe your PND is. Your GP and health visitor can help you decide what kind of help you need. If you don't get the help you think you need straight away, you can ask for a second opinion or you could see a different GP.

Try some of the self-help suggestions below. If this is not enough, you might find a talking therapy helpful. For more severe depression, you may need medication, with or without talking therapy. Your GP can advise you about these treatments.

A small number of women will need help from mental health services. Your GP can refer you to a perinatal mental health service - a specialist service for pregnant women or women with a baby under a year old. Otherwise you can be referred to a Community Mental Health Team. These are usually only needed for women with more severe illnesses.

Only a few women will need to go into hospital for treatment of PND. In that case, you should usually be admitted with your baby to a specialist Mother and Baby Unit.

If you cannot look after yourself or your baby, or if you have plans to harm yourself, you should be seen urgently by:

your GP

a mental health service - your GP can arrange this. You may already have a crisis number to call

your local Emergency Department - open 24 hours.

Don't be frightened by the diagnosis. Many women have postnatal depression and you will get better in time. Your partner, friends or family can be more helpful and understanding if they know what the problem is.

Do tell someone about how you feel. It can be a huge relief to talk to someone understanding. This may be your partner, a relative or friend. If you can't talk to your family or friends, talk to your health visitor or GP. They will know that these feelings are common and will be able to help.

Do take every opportunity to get some sleep or rest during the day or night. If you have a helpful partner, relative or friend, ask them to feed the baby at night sometimes. You can use your own expressed breast milk, or formula milk for this. If you are on your own, try and rest when the baby sleeps. Even if you cannot sleep, take some time to rest and relax.

Do try to eat regularly, even if you don't feel like eating. Eat healthy food.

Do find time to do things you enjoy or help you relax - e.g. go for a walk, read a magazine, listen to music.

If you have a partner, do try to enjoy some time together. If you are a single mother, try to do something enjoyable with a friend or family member.

Do go to local groups for new mothers or postnatal support groups. Your health visitor can tell you about groups in your area. You may not feel like going to these groups if you are depressed. See if someone can go with you. You may find the support of other new mothers helpful. You may find some women who feel the same way as you do.

Do let others help you with housework, shopping and looking after other children.

Do some exercise. Ask your health visitor if there are any mother and baby exercise classes in your area. Walking with your baby in the pram is good exercise. Regular exercise can boost your mood.

Do use self-help books and websites.

Do contact organisations that support women with Postnatal Depression.

Don't blame yourself, your partner or close friends or relatives. Life is tough at this time, and tiredness and irritability can lead to quarrels. 'Having a go' at your partner can weaken your relationship when it needs to be at its strongest. The same can happen with other close family or friends who are trying to support you.

Don't use alcohol or drugs. They may make you feel better for a short time, but it doesn't last. Alcohol and drugs can make depression worse. They are also bad for your physical health.

Don't be shocked or disappointed if your partner, friend or relative says she has postnatal depression. It is common and can be effectively helped.

Make sure that you understand what postnatal depression is. Ask the health visitor or GP if you need more information.

It's helpful just to spend time with someone who is depressed. It is important to listen and to offer encouragement and support. Reassure her that she will get better.

Be mindful of language you use - this is an illness, not something someone can 'snap out of', 'get on with' or cure by 'thinking positively'.

Take your partner, relative or friend seriously if she talks about not wanting to live or about harming herself. Make sure she seeks help urgently (see section above on Urgent Help).

Encourage your partner, relative and friend to get the help and treatment she needs. If you have any worries about treatment, discuss these with the doctor.

Do all you can to help with the practical things. This includes feeding and changing the baby, shopping, cooking or housework.

If you are the mother's partner, make sure that you have some support yourself.

If this is a first baby, you may feel pushed to one side, both by the baby and by your partner's needs. Try not to feel resentful. Your partner needs your help and support.

Ensure you are a good role model and take care of yourself.

Fathers can also get depressed after the birth of a baby. This may be more likely if the mother also has postnatal depression. If you are a father and think you may have depression, talk to your GP. It is important for you and your family that you get the help you need.

Most women will get better without any treatment within 3 to 6 months. 1 in 4 mothers with PND are still depressed when their child is one-year-old. ¹³ However, this can mean a lot of suffering. PND can spoil the experience of new motherhood. It can strain your relationship with your baby and partner. You may not look after your baby, or yourself, as well as you would when you are well. PND can affect your child's development and behaviour even after the depression has ended. ¹⁴ So the shorter it lasts, the better.

The treatment you need depends on how unwell you are. You should be told about all the likely benefits and risks of treatment so you can make the best choice for you.

Treatment includes: ¹⁵

Talking about your feelings can be helpful, however depressed you are. Sometimes, it's hard to express your feeling to someone close to you. Talking to a trained counsellor or therapist can be easier. It can be a relief to tell someone how you feel. It can also help you to understand and make sense of your difficulties.

Trained health visitors can offer counselling at home in some areas. There are also more specialised psychological treatments.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy can help you to see how some of your ways of thinking and behaving may be making you depressed. You can learn to change these thoughts which has a positive effect on other symptoms. Other psychotherapies can help you to understand the depression in terms of your relationships or what has happened to you in the past.

Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services offers short-term talking therapies. The types of therapy offered will vary depending on your local IAPT service. These may include guided self-help sessions with a therapist, cognitive behaviour therapy, couples therapy and counselling. IAPT services offer individual and group therapies. Women who are pregnant or have recently had a baby are usually given priority. You can often bring your baby to appointments. Some IAPT services also have groups just for women who are pregnant or for new mums. You can self-refer to your local IAPT service. Your GP, midwife or health visitor can also make a referral for you.

Talking treatments are usually very safe, but they can have unwanted effects. Talking about things may bring up bad memories from the past. This can make you low or distressed. Psychotherapy can put a strain on relationships with people close to you.

Make sure that you can trust your therapist and that they have the necessary training.

Another problem with talking therapies is that they are still hard to get in some areas. National guidelines state that women with PND should be seen within a month. Sometimes there are long waiting lists. This means you may not get any treatment for quite a while.

If you have a more severe depression, or it has not improved with support or a talking therapy, an antidepressant will probably help. 15,16

There are several types of antidepressants. They all work equally well, but have different side-effects. They are not addictive. They can all be used in PND, but some are safer than others if you are breastfeeding. 2,16

Antidepressants take at least 2 weeks to start working. You will need to take them for around 6 months after your start to feel better.

Make sure that your doctor knows that you are breastfeeding. For many antidepressants, there is no evidence that they cause problems for breastfed babies, so breastfeeding is usually possible. If your baby is unwell or premature the advice may change. You can talk to the doctor looking after your baby about this.

The decision is an individual one for each woman. Some antidepressants have been used in breastfeeding for many years. There is less information about newer medications. Your doctor can provide up-to-date information and advice and can check with the UK Drugs in Lactation Advisory Service if needed.

To decide whether to breastfeed when taking an antidepressant, you need to think about:

how severe your illness is (or has been in the past)

treatments which have helped you before

side-effects

up-to-date information about the safety of medication in breastfeeding

the benefits of breastfeeding

whether your baby is very premature or has any health problems

the impact of the untreated illness on your baby.

Breastfeeding has many health benefits for mother and baby. However, fully breastfeeding a baby can be very tiring. Some women find it easier to combine breast and bottle feeding. If a partner, friend or family member can do some of the feeds you will be able to get more rest.

Sometimes women feel guilty if they can't breastfeed. If you are unable to breastfeed you should not worry. It is more important for your baby that you are well. You will still develop a close bond with your baby if you bottle feed.

Hormones have been suggested as a treatment for PND. However, there is little evidence that they work, and they have their own dangers ², particularly if you have had thrombosis (blood clots in their veins).

St John's Wort is a herbal remedy available from chemists. There is evidence that it is effective in mild to moderate depression. It seems to work in much the same way as some antidepressants, but some people find that it has fewer side-effects.

One problem is that St John's Wort can interfere with the way other medications work. If you are taking other medication, you should discuss it with your doctor. This is very important if you are taking the oral contraceptive pill. St John's Wort might stop your pill working. This can lead to an unplanned pregnancy.

There is not enough information to say that it is definitely safe in breastfeeding. ¹⁷ Only small amounts get into breast milk, but do not assume that because it is 'herbal', it will be safe. Discuss the risks and benefits of treatment in breastfeeding with your doctor.

Telephone helpline and information leaflets for women with postnatal mental illness. Also a network of volunteers (telephone and postal) who have experienced postnatal mental illness. Email: info@apni.org Tel: 020 7386 0868

Free App with information in the form of video clips about many aspects of pregnancy and parenting, including mental health.

Information and support for women who have had a traumatic birth experience

Information and support about breastfeeding, including information about using medication when breastfeeding. Breastfeeding Helpline: 0300 100 0212

Advice and information on how to cope with a sleepless baby and/or a crying baby. Helpline: 08451 228669.

Support and practical help for families affected by mental health problems and other challenges such as substance misuse and domestic violence. Contact: T: 020 7254 6251. Email: info@family-action.org.uk

Support and practical help for families with at least one child under-5. Help offered to parents finding it hard to cope for many reasons. These include PND or other mental illness, isolation, bereavement, illness of parent or child.

Practical and emotional support in all areas of pregnancy, birth and early parenthood. Antenatal and postnatal courses. Local networks where you can meet other parents. Support line: 0300 330 0700

Help advice and support on a wide range of pregnancy and parenting issues, including mental health.

Support and advice for women with perinatal mental illness and their families. An organisation that helps individuals and their families with pre- and postnatal depression advice and support. Support line: 0843 2898401. Email: info@pandasfoundation.org.uk

Relationship support including couple and family counselling. Face-to-face, telephone or online counselling.

24-hour free helpline 116 123 ; Email: jo@samaritans.org.

Confidential emotional support for those in distress who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including suicidal thoughts.

Postnatal Depression Support packs. Mother and baby hampers for women with PND who are in considerable financial difficulty.

Further reading

Overcoming postnatal depression: a five areas approach by Christopher Williams, Roch Cantwell and Karen Robertson, Hodder Arnold (2012)

The Compassionate Mind Approach to Postnatal Depression: Using Compassion Focused therapy to Enhance Mood, Confidence and Bonding, by Michelle Cree, Robinson (2015)

Antenatal and Postnatal Depression by Siobhan Curran, Vermillion (2017)

Coping with postnatal depression by Dr Sandra Wheatley, Sheldon Press (2005)

Surviving postnatal depression by Cara Aitken, Jessica Kingsley Publishers (2000)

Feelings after birth: the NCT book of postnatal depression by Heather Welford, NCT Publishers (2002)

1. Woody CA, Ferrari A, Siskind D, Whiteford H, Harris M. A systematic review and meta-regression of the prevalence and incidence of perinatal depression. J Affect Disord. 2017; 219: 86-92.

2. Howard LM, Moylneaux E, Dennis C-L, Rochat T, Stein A, Milgrom J. Non-psychotic mental disorders in the perinatal period. The Lancet. 2014; 384;1775-1788.

3. Wisner K, Sit D, McShea M, Rizzo D, Zoretich R, Hughes C et al. Onset timing, thoughts of self-harm, and diagnoses in postpartum women with screen-positive depression findings. JAMA Psychiatry. 2013; 70: 490-498.

4. Henshaw C. Mood disturbance in the early puerperium: a review. Arch Womens Ment Health. 2003; 6: S33-42.

5. Gavin NI, Gaynes BN, Lohr KN, Meltzer-Brody S, Gartlehner G, Swinson T. Perinatal depression: a systematic review of prevalence and incidence. Obstet Gynecol. 2005; 106:1071-83.

6. VanderKruik R, Barreix M, Chou D, Allen T, Say L, Cohen LS. VanderKruik et al. The global prevalence of postpartum psychosis: a systematic review. BMC Psychiatry. 2017; 17:272.

7. Russell EJ, Fawcett JM, Mazmanian D. Risk of obsessive-compulsive disorder in pregnant and postpartum women: a meta-analysis. J Clin Psychiatry. 2013; 74:377-85.

8. Dennis CL, Dowswell T. Psychosocial and psychological interventions for preventing postpartum depression. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013; 2: CD001134

9. Sockol LE.A systematic review of the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy for treating and preventing perinatal depression. J Affect Disord. 2015; 15:177:7-21.

10. Molyneaux E, Howard LM, McGeown HR, Karia AM, Trevillion K.Antidepressant treatment for postnatal depression. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2014;9:CD002018.

11. Cohen LS, Altshuler LL, Harlow BL, Nonacs R, Newport DJ, Viguera AC et al Relapse of major depression during pregnancy in women who maintain or discontinue antidepressant treatment. JAMA. 2006; 295: 499-507.

12. Yonkers KA, Gotman N, Smith MV, Forray A, Belanger K, Brunetto WL etal. Does antidepressant use attenuate the risk of a major depressive episode in pregnancy? Epidemiology. 2011; 22: 848-854.

13. Goodman JH. Postpartum depression beyond the early postpartum period. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs. 2004; 33:410-20.

14. Stein A, Pearson RM, Goodman SH, Rapa E, Rahman A, McCallum M et al. Effects of perinatal mental disorders on the fetus and child. Lancet. 2014;15;384:1800-19.

15. National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence Antenatal and postnatal mental health: clinical management and service guidance. NICE Clinical Guideline 192: London 2014. www.nice.org.uk/ guidance/CG192

16. McAllister-Williams RH, Baldwin DS, Cantwell R, Easter A, Gilvarry E, Glover V et al. British Association for Psychopharmacology consensus guidance on the use of psychotropic medication preconception, in pregnancy and postpartum. J Psychopharmacol. 2017; 31: 519-552.

17. Budzynska K, Gardner ZE, Dugoua JJ, Low Dog T, Gardiner P. Systematic review of breastfeeding and herbs. Breastfeed Med. 2012; 7: 489-503.

Credits

Produced by the RCPsych Public Engagement Editorial Board

Author: Dr Lucinda Green
Service user and carer input: Members of Depression Alliance and Cocoon Family Support
Series Editor: Dr Phil Timms
Series Manager: Thomas Kennedy
© November 2018 Royal College of Psychiatrists

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Postnatal depression | Royal College of Psychiatrists

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This information is for anyone who wants to know more about postnatal depression (PND for short). We hope it will be helpful to: women who have, or think they might have postnatal depression pregnant women who are worried about getting postnatal depression partners, family and friends. This leaflet provides information, not advice.

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Building Bonds _good mental health for you and your baby

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Building Bonds _good mental health for you and your baby

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What is perinatal depression?

Depression is the most common perinatal mental health disorder women experience in pregnancy and the first year after having a baby (NICE, 2014). Depression in pregnancy is seen in 7-12% of women, (Bennett et al., 2004; Gavin et al., 2005) with postnatal depression rates of around 10-15% reported.

Around 10% of fathers have depression in the perinatal period (Beszlag & Hopkinson, 2020) and it is common for both parents to experience mental health problems at the same time (Anding et al., 2016). Depression is a mental health illness which, with treatment, will get better in time.

Depression in pregnancy can start at any time, although the severity may be different in each trimester. Postnatal depression usually comes on within six weeks of giving birth, although it can emerge up to a year after your baby is born (MIND, 2017). While postnatal depression should dissipate within a few months, 3 in 10 people with PND will still be ill after the first year (NICE, 2014).

Watch our video below where three mums talk about what it feels like to experience postnatal mental health issues.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Like depression at other times in life, it can be mild, moderate or severe. It can come on gradually or suddenly (NICE, 2014). The main difference though is that it can be a lot trickier to recognise. That's because your mental state is likely to change in the weeks and months after you have a baby anyway (NICE, 2014). You will also have such a lot going on around you.

Symptoms of depression can include:

feeling down and teary

an inability to concentrate

low sex drive

feeling worthless

inability to feel happiness

sleep problems

anger

finding it difficult to leave the house

overeating

problems bonding with your baby

suicidal thoughts

(Boots Family Trust Alliance, 2013)

A depression and anxiety self-assessment quiz is available here.

You can also seek information and support through NHS 111 or via your GP.

If you feel at risk of harming yourself or others then call 999, attend an emergency health care setting, or call the Samaritans on 116 123.

What causes depression in parents?

The exact cause of postnatal depression is not clear, although in women it doesn't seem to be due to hormonal changes (Patient, 2017). Some factors are known to increase the chance of becoming depressed in pregnancy and after birth. These include:

having a previous mental health problem

experiencing a traumatic birth experience or loss of a baby through stillbirth

living in a violent social situation

being a refugee or asylum seeker

having a history of childhood or adulthood abuse

having poor social support.

(RCOG, 2011; NICE, 2014; Ayers and Delicate, 2016)

Speak to your GP or midwife if you think you are at risk of depression so that you can get support.

What is the effect of having depression?

It is important to get help for depression so that you can access the right treatment and support to enable you to get better (Shakespeare, 2015). If not, it can have major consequences for your mental health, your relationship, your partner's mental health and the development of your baby (Fatherhood Institute, 2010; Howard et al, 2014; Ayers and Delicate, 2016).

It is common to have depression along with other perinatal mental health conditions such as anxiety, birth trauma and PTSD (Dikmen-Yildiz et al., 2017).

Support and treatment for depression

Treatments for depression include talking therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or anti-depressants (talk to your GP for advice if you're breastfeeding) (NICE, 2014; NHS 2018). If depression becomes severe, you might need a stay in hospital or mother and baby unit (RCOG, 2011; NHS Choices, 2018).

You can access treatment for depression via your GP or you can find out more about NHS psychological services here.

There are self-care tips that may help with mild to moderate depression:

1. Build a support network and make time to meet friends and other mums for a much-needed cup of tea and a chat (NEF, 2008).

2. Accept offers of help. It might be your mum dusting your living room or your best friend walking your newborn around the block so you can lie down. Whatever it is, take it (Boots Family Trust Alliance, 2013).

3. Exercise can work wonders for the way you feel (Cooney et al, 2013). It is also a great long-term practice for safeguarding your mental health (NEF, 2008; NHS, 2018). If you have recently given birth, it is important to give your body a chance to physically recover. The NHS provides some guidance which is suitable for pregnancy and after birth.

4. Try to eat healthily and regularly, and cut back on caffeine and alcohol (NHS, 2018).

5. Get showered and dressed, even if your plan for today is to go no further than the back door to put some nappies in the bin (MIND, 2017).

6. Be mindful - apps like Headspace can help improve your mental wellbeing and help you to deal with daily challenges (NEF, 2008). You can even practice mindfulness on the sofa while your newborn is feeding.

7. Keep a mood diary. It can help you notice how people, places and activities affect your mood (MIND, 2020).

8. Sign up to a baby massage class at NCT or with your local children's centre through a referral from your health visitor (NHS, 2018).

9. Contact local or national specialist organisations - they may offer the opportunity to talk to other women who are going through the same thing. Services available might include a dedicated telephone helpline, a buddy service, online support, support groups, counselling and wellbeing sessions.

This page was last reviewed in February 2022
Further information

Our support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby and general enquiries for parents, members and volunteers: 0300 330 0700.

You might find attending one of our Early Days groups helpful as they give you the opportunity to explore different approaches to important parenting issues with a qualified group leader and other new parents in your area.

Make friends with other parents-to-be and new parents in your local area for support and friendship by seeing what NCT activities are happening nearby.

Contact specialist organisations like PANDAS for more help and support with postnatal depression including a FREE helpline number on 0808 1961776.

Experiencing mental health symptoms can be overwhelming but help is available, so speak to a trusted health care professional such as a midwife, health visitor, or GP. If you feel at risk of harming yourself or others then call 999, attend an emergency department, or call the Samaritans on 116 123.

Anding, J. E., Röhrle, B., Grieshop, M., Schücking, B., & Christiansen, H. (2016). Couple comorbidity and correlates of postnatal depressive symptoms in mothers and fathers in the first two weeks following delivery. Journal of Affective Disorders, 190, 300-309. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2015.10.033

Ayers S & Delicate A. (2016). Recognising and acting on perinatal mental health. Perspective; 32. Available at: https://www.nct.org.uk/sites/default/files/related_documents/Ayers%20and%20Delicate%20Recognising%20and%20acting%20on%20perinatal%20mental%20health.pdf [Accessed 26 January 2022].

Bennett, H.A., Einarson, A.,  Taddio, A., Koren, G., & Einarson, T.R. (2004). Prevalence of depression during pregnancy: systematic review. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 103 (2004), 698-709. Available at: https://doi.org /10.1097/01.AOG.0000116689.75396.5f

Beszlag, D., &Hodkinson, P. (2020). Paternal perinatal mental health difficulties - an evidence review. Evidence review produced for NCT.

Boots Family Trust Alliance. (2013) Perinatal mental health: experiences of women and health professionals. Available from: https://www.tommys.org/sites/default/files/legacy/Perinatal_Mental_Health_Experiences%20of%20women.pdf [Accessed 26 January 2022].

Coates R. (2016) Broadening the net: assessing the full range of perinatal mental health problems. Perspective; 32. Available from: https://www.nct.org.uk/sites/default/files/related_documents/Perspective-September-2016_0.pdf [Accessed 1st December 2017].

Cooney, G.M., Dwan, K., Greig, C.A., Lawlor D.A., Rimer, J., Waugh, F.R., McMurdo, M., & Mead G.E. (2013) Exercise for depression. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews; (9). Available at: https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD004366.pub6

Fatherhood Institute. (2010) Research summary: fathers and postnatal depression. Available from:

http://www.fatherhoodinstitute.org/2010/fatherhood-institute-research-summary-fathers-and-postnatal-depression [Accessed 26 January 2022].

Gavin, N.I., Gaynes, B.N., Lohr, K.N., Meltzer-Brody, S., Gartlehner, G., & Swinson, T. (2005). Perinatal depression: a systematic review of prevalence and incidence

Obstetrics & Gynecology, 106 (2005),1071-1083. Available at: https;//doi.org/ 10.1097/01.AOG.0000183597.31630.db

Howard LM, Piot P, Stein A. (2014) No health without perinatal mental health. The Lancet; 384(9956):1723-1724 Available from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25455235

MIND. (2020) Postnatal depression and perinatal mental health pages. Available at: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/postnatal-depression-and-perinatal-mental-health/postnatal-and-antenatal-depression/#.WcozHYokqRs [Accessed 26 January 2022]

NEF. (2008) Five ways to wellbeing. A report presented to the Foresight programme on communicating the evidence base for improving people's wellbeing. Available at: https://neweconomics.org/2008/10/five-ways-to-wellbeing [Accessed 26 January 2022].

NHS (2018) Overview postnatal depression. Available at: http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Postnataldepression/Pages/Introduction.aspx [Accessed 26th January 2022].

NICE (2014) Antenatal and postnatal mental health. CG192. Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg192 [Accessed 26th January 2022].

RCOG. (2011) Management of women with mental health issues during pregnancy and the postnatal period. Good Practice No. 14. Available at: https://www.rcog.org.uk/globalassets/documents/guidelines/managementwomenmentalhealthgoodpractice14.pdf [Accessed 26 January 2022].

RCPSYCH. (2018). Postnatal depression - key facts. Available at: https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/problems-disorders/postnatal-depression-key-facts [Accessed 14 January 2022]

Shakespeare J. (2015) Perinatal mental health: the picture today. Perspective; 26. Available from: https://www.nct.org.uk/sites/default/files/related_documents/Perinatal%20mental%20health-%20the%20picture%20today.pdf [Accessed January 2018].

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Perinatal depression: the questions you really want to ask | Life as a parent articles & support | NCT

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Heard it discussed but still feel in the dark? Here are the answers to the most common questions about depression in pregnancy and after birth.

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Supporting you with your routines, activity and wellbeing

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A Chester based peer support group for mums with mental health problems.

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Milestone Mums | Live Well Cheshire West

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A peer support group for mums with mental health problems. All welcome with children between 0-2. Admission is donation only. Activities will be provided.

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Volunteer-led local walks for parents

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The charity for mums and families affected by postpartum psychosis

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Supporting and advocating for mums and families affected by postpartum psychosis (PP) - a severe but treatable mental illness that begins in the days and weeks after giving birth.

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Chapter Mental Health | Dedicated to Supporting and Improving Mental Health | Home

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Cheshire based mental health charity, Chapter supports individuals, communities and business to promote positive mental health

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Headspace is a science-backed app in mindfulness and meditation, providing unique tools and resources to help reduce stress, build resilience, and aid better sleep.

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Click the link below to return to the welcome page

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Click the link below to return to the welcome page

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-Countess of Chester Hospital Perinatal Mental Health Services.

-Cheshire & Merseyside Specialist Perinatal Service.

-Organisations that provide information and support

-Local Support Groups

-Helpful Apps

-Perinatal support for partners.

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Countess of Chester Perinatal mental health Service.

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Countess of Chester Perinatal mental health Service.

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Pregnancy is recognised as a major life event during which time women experience lots of physical, emotional and social changes.

During early pregnancy, most women feel extremely tired and may experience nausea and other physical discomforts because of hormonal changes which is completely normal.

Although many women have good mental health and wellbeing during pregnancy, this can be a time of increased anxieties and emotional adjustment.

Some women may experience ongoing anxiety and/or depression which can lead to more serious mental illness if untreated/unsupported.

Women with a previous history of mental health problems have an increased risk of recurrence during this time, even if they have been well for many years.

There is lots of help available to support your mental health throughout pregnancy and the postnatal period.  If you feel you could benefit from one-to-one mental health support you can self-refer to the perinatal mental health midwifery team at The Countess of Chester, or you can ask your midwife, GP or Health Visitor to do this for you.  We are here to help make your pregnancy and transition to parenthood the best it can be for you.

The Perinatal Mental Health Midwife will:

·         Listen to your concerns in an unhurried environment

·         Give you advice on how to optimise your emotional wellbeing during pregnancy

·         Signpost you to various support networks available in your community

·         Document a personal and individualised plan of care to be filed within your maternity case-notes for other health professionals to refer to

·         Discuss and offer referral to the NHS Talking Therapies or Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Team where therapies including counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy  may be available

·         If you are already under the care of a Community Mental Health Team, the perinatal mental health team can review your current plan of care and any medication you may be taking, to ensure you are getting all the support and advice you need to optimise the health and wellbeing of you, your family and your baby.

To contact the team call 01244 365011.

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Periods of worry and stress are normal when you’re pregnant, but some women have feelings that don’t go away and this can be a sign of something more serious.

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APNI - Association for Post-Natal Illness | Post Natal Depression

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APNI - Association for Post-Natal Illness | Post Natal Depression

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Association for Post-Natal Illness and Post Natal Depression. APNI relies solely on the generosity of the public to fund our charity.

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Perinatal Mental Health Peer Support and Awareness

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Chasing the Stigma - National Mental Health Charity

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By making Chasing the Stigma and the Hub of Hope your official signposting partner, you can create clear and consistent pathways to mental health care for your employees, customers or audience across the UK.

Supporters

Hear from people using the Hub of Hope.

Donate

Help to keep the Hub of Hope free.

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By making Chasing the Stigma and the Hub of Hope your official signposting partner, you can create clear and consistent pathways to mental health care for your employees, customers or audience across the UK. Hear from people using the Hub of Hope. Help to keep the Hub of Hope free.

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This information and videos are available in verified by experts in our Editorial Board including representatives from Royal College of Midwives, Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and Royal College of Psychiatrists as well as other key health organisations in the UK. To download Baby Buddy, visit the relevant app store of your choice:

Introduction

Mental health doctor Alain explains how you are the best person to know whether what you're feeling is normal for you - and why it's so important to talk to someone if you feel something's not right.

Feelings in pregnancy

New mum Nicola talks about some of her feelings when she was pregnant, including being very emotional at her first ultrasound scan.

Feelings after birth

New mum Rebecca talks about feeling low and emotional after her baby was born. Talking to friends and family can help - but if you need more support, talk to your midwife or health visitor

Mental Health problems

Mental health doctor Alain explains what postnatal depression is, and what to do if you have it.

Coping and support

New mum Katie, who has depression, talks about some simple, practical steps she took took to help avoid stress and keep her relationship strong.

If you're feeling low, talk to your midwife, health visitor or doctor.

You can get information and support from PANDAS ( www.pandasfoundation.org.uk, helpline 0843 2898401) or APNI ( www.apni.org.uk, helpline 020 7386 0868).

Getting help and treatment

Women's mental health doctor Trudi talks about when to ask for help if you're not feeling right or you're worried about your mental health. Talk to your midwife, health visitor or doctor about how you feel.

Mental health long films

Four mothers talk about their experiences of having depression and anxiety, and health professionals describe the options for support and treatment. This video is a clip from the longer film.

You can get information and support for depression and anxiety at MIND ( www.mind.org.ukhelpline 0300 123 3393 or text 86463), PANDAS ( www.pandasfoundation.org.ukhelpline 0843 2898401), APNI ( www.apni.org, helpline 0207 386 0868) or Anxiety UK ( www.anxietyuk.org.uk, helpline 08444 775 774).

Latest

The Impact Lead will focus on developing Best Beginnings' frameworks for monitoring and evaluating our national and international work ensuring that learning continues to be captured in ways that can be shared and used for effective advocacy and influencing. The successful candidate will also play a pivotal role influencing policy and its implementation within the maternity, early years, digital health and public health context.

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Our Out of the Blue videos support parents' and soon-to-be parents' wellbeing during pregnancy and beyond.

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We want to guide you towards reduced stress, better sleep, and improved health through the power of meditation. Welcome to The Mindfulness App!

Mindfulness means giving the present moment your full attention, observing what is right here, right now, with the intention not to judge what one notices. Being mindful is a quality we can develop through regular meditation practice.

Meditation is a mental practice that involves training one's attention and awareness to achieve a calm and clear state of mind. You can see it as a gym for your brain.

There can be numerous benefits of meditation, including: reduced stress, lowered anxiety, increased focus, improved sleep and relationships, increased compassion for yourself and others.

Mindfulness means giving the present moment your full attention, observing what is right here, right now, with the intention not to judge what one notices. Being mindful is a quality we can develop through regular meditation practice.

Meditation is a mental practice that involves training one's attention and awareness to achieve a calm and clear state of mind. You can see it as a gym for your brain.

There can be numerous benefits of meditation, including: reduced stress, lowered anxiety, increased focus, improved sleep and relationships, increased compassion for yourself and others.

Easy to use and navigate. I'm a beginner and feel calmer and less anxious 2 weeks into using this app. Calm instruction with easy to listen to tones and voices. Feeling a little more mindful everyday.

It's amazing how easy it is to actually meditate and even more amazing to see the positive differences it can bring. Thank you for teaching me how to meditate and how to focus and bring my concentration back to where it needs to be when it starts to wander.

I would love to tell everyone l know who is having a hard time sleeping or simply relaxing that meditation and mindfulness will help to overcome overthinking and restlessness of mind and body. Try it. You will be surprised.

Start your journey with a simple 5-Day introduction to mindfulness.

Guided meditations and courses from world-renowned experts in over 25 topics.

Customize and personalize the app to meet your own preferences and needs.

You decide the amount of time and can choose between silent, guided or personalized.

Set reminders for yourself to build or maintain your meditation routine.

Find what works for you. We're here to assist in any way possible!

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Meditation for better sleep, less stress and overall better well-being and mental health

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Connect with women who are at a similar stage in life-from fertility, pregnancy and motherhood through to menopause.

Peanut provides access to a community who are there to listen, share information and offer valuable advice.

Fertility

Pregnancy

Motherhood

Menopause

Community

We envision a world where no woman has to navigate life alone. Where they have a safe space to find friendship and be vulnerable.

Meet

Discover women nearby who are at a similar stage in life.

Groups

Join groups and find communities with common interests.

Share

Ask questions, get advice and share stories across meaningful topics.

Pods

Join live audio conversations hosted by experts.

Peanut means a network, it means meeting new women who are going through your same experiences, it means supporting one another through this wonderful adventure!
Alice P.

It's so easy to navigate and before I knew it, I was messaging one of my neighbors and planning a big meetup.
Emily M.

I love the Peanut app! I met my best friend who lives directly across the street. I would never have met her if it weren't for this app!
Kristen P.

I wish I knew about Peanut sooner, as it's so important to surround yourself with women who understand during those overwhelming moments of womanhood.
Lydia M.

I mean, seriously, genius, and so fun! I've been using the app for a few weeks and have already been able to connect with several awesome women that are within a local distance from me.
Madison H.

While a number of online groups already exist-Peanut is far more customized.

Peanut is a welcome sign that change is afoot, and the internet is finally growing up.

A space where women can seek advice and support from those on similar journeys.

Want to meet women like you?

Download Peanut to connect with women at a similar stage in life.

Scan the QR code
and join the app

Trusted by 3M+ women

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Whether you're navigating fertility, pregnancy, motherhood or menopause, Peanut is a safe space to ask questions, find support and connect with other women.

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Insight Timer - #1 Free Meditation App for Sleep, Relax & More

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The best meditation app with the world's largest FREE library of more than 190k guided meditations, 17k teachers & the world's most loved meditation Timer.

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Here are some of the ThinkUp app most popular love affirmations : 1. I understand that every relationship starts within me. I have a wonderful loving relationship with myself.2. I deserve to be loved.3. I am thankful and grateful for the love in my life.4. I am ready for healthy and loving relationship.5.

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The Science Behind WorryTree

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a proven, evidence-based technique that helps you to change the way you feel by practicing new thoughts and taking different actions. It's very simple and very effective, and you can read more about this form of therapy here.

While WorryTree was developed by worriers, for worriers, we also have our Clinical Advisory Panel made up of qualified mental health professionals who ask questions and provide guidance, making sure that the techniques and tools that we're creating at WorryTree are the best ones for you.

We're also proud to have a testing community here at WorryTree, and if you'd like to get involved in testing new releases of WorryTree and making suggestions for new tools and techniques, sign up for our newsletter.

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Take control of your worries, one day at a time, with our free mobile app available on Google Play and App Store

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Who Let The Dads Out? - Care for the Family

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Who Let The Dads Out? is a movement that inspires and resources churches to support fathers, father-figures and their children.

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Join the biggest network of dads in the UK, sharing in the laughter and the tears of being a father. We send regular helpful articles, intriguing videos and hilarious Dadsnet Original podcasts.

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Dadsnet | The leading network connecting local Dads worldwide

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Dadsnet is a parenting essential, offering advice, support and knowledge through a community of dads on practical parenting and fatherhood.

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10 years of findings on the importance of fathers'
mental health in the perinatal period
Mark Williams - September 2020

INTRODUCTION | Mark Williams
Looking after an infant is often a challenge for both parents. It is increasingly recognised that postnatal depression and other perinatal mental illnesses and disorders can be experienced by men as well as women. We now understand that becoming a father and experiencing
fatherhood can be a stressful and isolating experience. It is quite possible that the increased pressures of fatherhood - which mean little sleep, extra responsibilities, greater financial challenges, and changes in relationships and lifestyles - will all affect the father's mental health.

Research has shown that one in 10 new fathers suffer from postnatal depression, very similar to the figure for new mothers. Once education, universal assessment and screening processes are introduced, this figure will no doubt be higher - I believe that the figure for mothers has increased now that they are being routinely assessed, and this is supported by Wisner et al's (2013) finding that almost 22% of women suffer from postnatal depression during the first year postpartum - thus highlighting the need for much more to be done to support fathers in the perinatal period.

Although it is still early days, there is already anecdotal evidence that the Covid-19 pandemic, and the resultant limitations imposed on 'normal life', have made paternal postnatal depression worse. As research increases around paternal mental health, we feel that we have sufficient evidence
to lead to a change in policies and protocols by the World Health Organisation (WHO) to include fathers' mental health.

We want the WHO Commissioners to understand the importance of "Think Family", to include and support all parents during the perinatal period.

We know that the Equality Act 201011 legally protects people from discrimination in the workplace and in wider society on the basis of their sex. This includes a duty on public authorities (which includes the NHS and related organisations) to "have due regard to the need to eliminate discrimination..." when exercising their functions.

It cannot be emphasised enough that the biggest killer of men under 50 in the UK is suicide. Studies have shown that fathers with mental health problems during the perinatal period are up to 47 times more likely to be classed as a suicide risk than at any other time in their lives.

Surely now is the time to act and make a difference?

To read the whole report, please Click Here

The full report includes:
Preface | Professor Minesh Khashu
Introduction | Mark Williams
Summary and Key Recommendations
Types of perinatal mental illness | Dr Jane Hanley
Why fathers' mental health is important | Mark Williams
The antenatal period
Engagement with healthcare professionals
Screening and assessment
Relationships
Preparedness for fatherhood
Mental health experiences
Pressures from wider society
Lack of role models
Coping strategies
Support and support groups
Role of social media
Impact on child development
Cost to the nation
Conclusion | Mark Williams
Useful organisations in the UK

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10 years of findings on the importance of fathers'mental health in the perinatal periodMark Williams - September 2020 INTRODUCTION | Mark WilliamsLooking after an infant is often a challenge for bo...

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ANDYSMANCLUB are a men’s suicide prevention charity, offering free-to-attend peer-to-peer support groups across the United Kingdom and online.

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From coffee groups to meet-ups for new dads, our local groups and activities can help you build up a supportive social network.

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Motherwell Cheshire CIO - Encourage, Inspire, Empower

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