Maternal Mental Health Week

Here at Mum & You we're a company of mums and dads. So, we want to talk about the important things about parenthood.

Maternal mental health is a critical issue that affects millions of mothers worldwide. Globally, approximately 10% of women experience mental health problems during pregnancy, and 13% of women experience postpartum depression. Maternal mental health includes a range of conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and psychosis, and can have a significant impact on a mother's emotional, social, and physical well-being.

There are various risk factors that can contribute to maternal mental health issues, including hormonal changes during pregnancy and after childbirth, sleep deprivation, and lack of social support. Additionally, a history of mental health problems, stressful life events, and a difficult pregnancy or childbirth can also increase the likelihood of developing maternal mental health conditions.

Maternal mental health awareness week talks about mental problems before, during and after pregnancy. It's organised and led by MMHA member the Perinatal Mental Health Partnership UK (PMHP UK), with the first awareness week being in 2014.

Feeling overwhelmed? You're not alone

As parents ourselves, we know how easily we can feel overwhelmed. The burden of carrying the mental load, trying to remembering everything your child and household needs. The juggle of childcare. Feeling overstimulated and touched out by the constant noise and mess little ones bring with them. Leaving you feel frustrated, angry and overwhelmed. And while you may think these feelings may not be enough to warrant a talk with your doc, they contribute to your overall mental wellbeing so it's important to recognise and validate these feelings and talk about it with friends and family, before they become a bigger problem.

3 quick ways to help when you're feeling overwhelmed

1. Step outside or open a window - close your eyes, take deep breaths and pick out 3 things you can hear, like birds tweeting, neighbours mowing. It helps to ground you. You can also try to spot 3 things too.

2. Go for a walk - simple but it really does help you and the little ones to get out, especially into open space

3. Water play - for the kids, either in the bath, shower, sink, garden or washing toys in a big bucket/tray. It'll calm them down, redirect some of their energy and let you take a moment to just 'be'.

You've got this. You're doing great.

Feeling like you need more help?

There are several effective treatments available for maternal mental health conditions, including talk therapy, medication, and support groups. It is crucial to seek help from a healthcare professional if you or someone you know is experiencing maternal mental health issues. With proper treatment and support, mothers can recover and lead happy, healthy lives with their children. It is essential to raise awareness about this critical issue to ensure that all mothers receive the care they need and deserve.

You can also read this blog with with Dr Lindsay McMillan about all things maternal mental health. Read the blog here.