Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week is from 1 to 7 May, with World Maternal Mental Health Day on 3 May. The week-long campaign is dedicated to talking about mental illness during and after pregnancy. It is led by the Perinatal Mental Health Partnership UK.
Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week is a week-long campaign dedicated to talking about mental health problems before, during and after pregnancy
Up to 1 in 5 women develop mental health difficulties during pregnancy or in the 1st year after birth. It can feel difficult to open up about mental health problems, but the topic is being discussed more openly than ever before. By talking to someone, you are more likely to get the help and support you need.
Many of us have visions of what pregnancy and motherhood might be like, perpetuated by images in the media. Try not to put pressure on yourself for things to be perfect. Be led by what both you and your baby need, rather than a pre-existing plan. Go easy on yourself.
Remember having a baby is a huge life-changing event and it is natural to have times when you feel overwhelmed, anxious, tearful. Remember, you aren’t alone. It doesn’t make you a bad mum.
You are the best person to know whether what you're feeling is normal for you. Talking to friends and family can help, but if you need more support, talk to your midwife, health visitor or GP. You can also seek support from local support groups, national helplines and online support.
Sadly, there is still stigma around mental health difficulties, but the more we talk about our feelings, the more we realise there is nothing to be ashamed of and we are not alone. There are specialist services that can help and a health professional should be able to help you decide what approach might be best for you. Medication can be helpful for some but some treatments may include talking therapies or psychological therapies.