Mental health support for new parents
New and expectant mums in Plymouth who are struggling with their mental health are able to access a perinatal mental health peer support group run by Livewell Southwest.
Perinatal mental health (PMH) refers to mental health issues occurring during pregnancy or in the first year following the birth of a child. According to NHS figures, around 20% of new and expectant mums are affected by perinatal mental illness, with many still afraid to speak up and ask for help.
The PMH team work closely with midwives, GPs and health visitors to help them spot the signs and to let families know that support is out there.
The term covers a wide range of difficulties and conditions including post-natal depression and post-partum psychosis.
Experiencing mental health issues can cause a lot of anxiety for new mums. If you are struggling to bond with your baby or suffering from postnatal depression, this can have a real effect on not just your bond and relationship, but on the baby’s wellbeing too, and can lead to your baby suffering with ill mental health later in life.
Livewell’s peer support programme enables women experiencing low level perinatal mental health issues to access support from other women who have been through or are going through similar issues and experiences. We are recruiting mums with lived experience of perinatal mental health who are doing well in their recovery and who can provide their insights and support.
For more information about the perinatal mental health peer support group click here. Or email livewell.perinatalmentalhealth@nhs.net for details and to book onto the group.
