Guest Blog by Holly at Mind in Harrogate District
What are maternal mental health problems?
Recent data from the World Health Organisation shows that as many as one in five women experience perinatal mental health problems including depression, anxiety and psychosis. A ‘perinatal’ mental health problem is one that you experience any time from becoming pregnant up to a year after you give birth.
Having a baby is a big life event. It’s natural to experience a range of emotions during pregnancy and after giving birth. But if any difficult feelings start to have a big effect on your day-to-day life, you might be experiencing a perinatal mental health problem. This may be new mental health problem, or an episode of a problem you’ve experienced in the past.
What causes perinatal mental health problems?
There are many reasons that you might develop a mental health problem. Nobody knows exactly why they happen.
Some perinatal mental health problems have clearer causes. For example, difficult experiences while giving birth can cause postnatal PTSD. But for many people, it can be a combination of factors that cause a perinatal mental health problem.
These factors might include:
It is also worth noting that post-natal mental health issues can affect men as well as women, but men are less likely to seek help when this occurs.
How can I look after myself?
Becoming a new parent can be a very stressful experience. Finding ways to look after yourself that fit in with your responsibilities and needs can make a big difference to your mental health. Here are some ideas:
Go to local parent-and-baby groups – Talking to other new parents, and finding that they share the anxieties and frustrations you are experiencing, can be very reassuring. If you’re feeling nervous about being around new people, try doing something based around an activity. This might make it easier to start talking to other parents. For example, you could try doing music or yoga. Check out some local classes and playgroups here.
Access online support – chat groups like Harrogate Mumbler Facebook group are a great place to reach out for support or meet like-minded parents.
Accept help – If you have people close to you who want to do something practical to help, there is nothing wrong with accepting their support. For example, they might help you with shopping, cooking meals or cleaning.
Keep active – This could be going for a walk with the pram, dancing to music at home or doing gentle yoga. Physical activity can boost your mood, and help you feel like you’re getting to do some things for yourself.
Take time to relax – You might feel like you have no time for yourself, or that all you do is sit around at home. Try to make a bit of time to do something that makes you feel good, even if it is only for a few minutes. And think about what really helps you unwind, whether it’s reading a book, watching TV or doing crafts.
Most importantly, don’t pressure yourself. Try not to set unrealistic standards for yourself or get too frustrated if you don’t do the things you planned to.
Where can I go for more help and support?
If you are struggling with your mental health and you need some support, please get in touch with your local Mind charity. We provide a face-to-face counselling service as well as a telephone helpline and a befriending service. Simply contact Mind in Harrogate District on 01423 503335 or visit our website for updates on all our activities.
Some other charities and organisations that may be helpful are listed below:
Birth Trauma Association
Support for anyone affected by birth trauma, including partners.
The Breastfeeding Network
0300 100 0212
Support and information about breastfeeding and perinatal mental health.
Gingerbread
0808 802 0925
Advice and practical support for single parent families.
Home-Start
Support for families with young children, including details of local services.
