Hi, my name is Jayne Croston, and I work at Safe Spaces for Mind in Bradford. I have two roles within the service: Inequality Link Worker and Perinatal Lead.

My role within Safe Spaces is to network with voluntary and statutory organisations, as well as community groups, grassroots organisations, and perinatal services, to help promote Safe Spaces and make it more accessible and diverse for the global majority communities, within Bradford, Craven and Airedale.

Previously, I have worked in perinatal mental health support in the Inpatient Mother and Baby Unit in Leeds, for mums with severe postnatal depression and postpartum psychosis, and also in the community in Bradford, supporting mums with mild to moderate perinatal mental health issues.

As it’s Maternal Mental Health Week, I want to talk about what perinatal mental health is, what you can do to help manage your symptoms, and how you can be supported by family, friends, and other organisations.

What are some symptoms of poor mental health in new mothers?

Most women can experience some tearfulness and low mood a few days after birth, but if the problems continue, you may be suffering from postnatal depression or another perinatal mood disorder. Symptoms are different for every mum but may include:

• feeling sad and tearful
• feeling anxious or afraid to be on your own with your baby
• being preoccupied with worrying thoughts
• having difficulty adjusting to parenthood or in bonding with your baby
• experiencing difficulties with your partner since having a baby
• feeling stressed and unmotivated
• feeling tired and overwhelmed
• having difficulties getting over your birth experience

How can parents look after their mental health?

Parents can look after their mental health by supporting each other, emotionally and practically. Accept any support offered by family and friends and keep talking to your midwife, health visitor or GP. Local prenatal and postnatal support groups can also be a great opportunity to get to know other parents and find a community. 

How can friends and family support a new parent?

Make sure you are checking in with Mum to see how she is, and listen to her concerns. Having a baby is exhausting; mentally, physically and emotionally, and sleep deprivation has a negative impact on mental health and the ability to cope with challenges. Friends and family can support new parents by encouraging mums to rest when the baby is sleeping. It may also be helpful to offer to look after the older children, tidy up the home or do a food shop for the family. Encourage the parent to speak to their health visitor, midwife or GP if there any concerns around their mood, and if they are hesitant to get help, take a look at the suggested resources below.

What treatment is available?

Perinatal mental health problems are usually treated by a combination of medication and talking therapies. A GP can prescribe you medication and refer you for talking treatments. Alternatively, you can refer yourself directly to NHS Bradford District and Craven Talking Therapies, without going to a GP.