Perinatal mental health encompasses the emotional and psychological landscape experienced by many expectant and new parents. It's a journey that traverses a wide spectrum of emotions, from the joy and anticipation of welcoming a new life to the anxiety and overwhelm that can accompany this transformative phase. During the perinatal period, individuals may encounter a range of mental health concerns, from the common baby blues and heightened stress to more significant conditions such as postpartum depression and anxiety. Identifying and understanding these challenges is essential in initiating conversations about mental well-being in the perinatal period and seeking the support necessary for navigating this extraordinary journey. Recognising these emotional and mental states can be an important step in validating experiences and opening the door to seeking guidance and support."
Mental Health Foundation: The Mental Health Foundation is a leading charity promoting good mental health for all. While not exclusively focused on perinatal mental health, it provides valuable resources and support for individuals facing perinatal mental health challenges.
Mental Health Foundation
Mental Health Foundation Information Service: 020 7803 1100
Email: mhf@mhf.org.uk
Website: Mental Health Foundation
Twitter: @mentalhealth
Action on Postpartum Psychosis (APP)
APP is a national charity that provides information and support for women and families affected by postpartum psychosis. They offer a network of peer support and expert resources to help individuals living with or recovering from postpartum psychosis.
Action on Postpartum Psychosis (APP)
- Email: app@app-network.org
- Website: Action on Postpartum Psychosis
- Twitter: @ActionOnPP
Maternal Mental Health Alliance (MMHA)
The MMHA is a coalition of over 100 organisations that works to improve the mental health and well-being of women and their children during the perinatal period. They offer resources, research, and advocacy to address perinatal mental health challenges.
Maternal Mental Health Alliance (MMHA)
- Website: Maternal Mental Health Alliance
- Contact Form: info@maternalmentalhealthalliance.org
- Twitter: @MMHAlliance
PANDAS Foundation
The PANDAS Foundation offers support for individuals and their families who are dealing with perinatal mental health issues, including antenatal depression, postnatal depression, and postnatal anxiety. They provide a helpline, online community support, and valuable resources to help individuals access the support they need.
Helpline: 0808 1961 776
Email: info@pandasfoundation.org.uk
Website: PANDAS Foundation
Twitter: @Pandas_uk
Tommy's: Tommy's is a charity that funds research into miscarriage, premature birth, and stillbirth and provides pregnancy health information to parents. They offer support for individuals facing the emotional and mental health challenges associated with pregnancy and early parenthood.
Tommy's Midwife Helpline: 0800 0147 800
Email: mailbox@tommys.org
Website: Tommy's
Twitter: @Tommys
The Samaritans
Is a well-known charity that provides confidential emotional support to individuals who are experiencing feelings of distress, despair, or suicidal thoughts. They offer a 24-hour helpline that is available for anyone who needs to talk in confidence about what they're going through.
Phone: 116 123 (free to call)
Email: jo@samaritans.org
Website: Samaritans
Twitter: Samaritans
Sands is a UK charity that provides support for anyone affected by the death of a baby, working to reduce the number of babies dying and to ensure that those affected receive the best possible care for as long as they need it. Here are the contact details for Sands:
Phone: 0808 164 3332 (Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, plus Tuesday and Thursday evenings until 9:30 pm)
Email: helpline@sands.org.uk
Website: Sands
Twitter:SandsUK
These contact details can be used to access support and information from Sands, particularly for those who have been affected by the loss of a baby and need support and guidance.
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