Supporting parents with their mental health
Having a baby can be both exciting and daunting, and can lead to feelings including low mood and anxiety.
Up to 27 per cent of women experience mental health problems during or after pregnancy, according to NHS figures.
As part of Mental Health Awareness Week 2023, we are raising awareness of how new parents can access support if they need it.
We run one of the largest specialist community perinatal mental health services in the country, and it is one of the highest performing nationally for people accessing help.
Around 22,000 babies are born every year in Essex and more than 3,500 new mums were referred to us last year for support.
Among the feedback we have received from parents supported by the Perinatal Mental Health Service Team was from a mum who said: “I can't imagine the place I would be in if it wasn't for the help and work of those supporting me.
“Although I may not be at the place that is ideal, I am getting there.
“My confidence is much better with looking after the children and knowing my capabilities as a mum and believing I can do it. Thank you for everything.”
Caroline Bogle, Associate Director for Community Perinatal Mental Health Services, said: “The image we’re all sold is you are meant to be happy when you have a baby.
“However, the reality of parenthood is much more complex and for people who are finding it difficult, it can be hard for them to talk about how they are feeling.
“If you are struggling, or know someone who is, it’s really important to seek help early.
“You can speak to any health or social care professional supporting you.
“You are most likely to be in touch with your midwife, GP or health visitor, who will know how to refer you to the right services so that you and your baby are receiving the best care and support.”
Dr Rina Gupta, Consultant Perinatal Psychiatrist and Clinical Lead, said: “If you need specialist care, our perinatal teams offer support for mums both before and after they’ve had their baby, so they can stay well or get better.”
“We are a very compassionate team and tailor care and support to mum and baby’s needs and really see the difference that this can make.”
Our specialist Rainbow Mother and Baby Unit in Chelmsford provides mental health care and treatment for women during the late stages of pregnancy and up to one year after the birth of their baby.
It also supports families and carers, and has one of the first perinatal mental health wards to have a bedroom designed specifically to meet the needs of bariatric patients.
Many parents find they have not bonded with their baby in the way they had hoped and some may have difficult feelings about parenting.
Our Together with Baby service supports parents to better understand their baby's emotional responses and communication, and strengthen their relationship with their child.
We support parents during pregnancy and until their child is two years old.
We welcome self-referrals from parents. You can find out more about on the Together with Baby service webpage.
If you are a parent who would like to talk to someone about anything that’s troubling you, the Essex Peer to Parent Network also has a list of peer support groups in Essex.
Peer supporters are there to listen and talk about any worries, including if you feel unsupported, isolated, lonely or anxious, are concerned about financial or housing issues, or just feel like you're not coping well.
They can help parents emotionally and practically, both before your baby is born and afterwards.