From the throes of morning sickness to the excitement of baby kicks, pregnancy can be a rollercoaster of emotions. For some women, this rollercoaster may also include the challenges of perinatal mental health (PMH) issues. Fortunately, in England, the National Health Service (NHS) offers a breadth of mental health services and support for pregnant women. This article is designed to guide you through accessing and utilising those services.
Understanding Perinatal Mental Health
Before we delve into the available services, let’s take a moment to understand what we mean by perinatal mental health. The term perinatal refers to the period of time extending from the start of pregnancy until about a year after childbirth. It’s a time when women can be especially susceptible to mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and more severe conditions like postpartum psychosis. According to data from NHS England, around 20% of women will experience a mental health problem during pregnancy or within a year after giving birth.
Mental health during pregnancy is just as important as physical health, and it’s vital that women experiencing difficulties seek help. The good news is that effective treatment is available, and early intervention can lead to better outcomes for both mother and baby.
Accessing Mental Health Services through the NHS
If you’re pregnant and struggling with your mental health, it’s crucial to know that there’s support available, and the NHS is a great place to start. The first port of call for many is their general practitioner (GP). They can offer initial advice, provide treatment for milder symptoms, or refer you to specialist services if necessary. Don’t hesitate to share your feelings and concerns with your GP; they are there to help you.
Specialist perinatal mental health services are also available through the NHS. These multidisciplinary teams are composed of psychiatrists, mental health nurses, occupational therapists, social workers, and clinical psychologists. They provide a range of care options, including psychological therapy, medication, and, in severe cases, hospitalisation.
NHS Digital Tools for Mental Health Support
In the digital age, the NHS has also developed online tools to complement its traditional services. NHS’s digital offer includes websites, apps and online therapy services that can provide valuable support to women dealing with perinatal mental health issues.
Websites like NHS Choices are a goldmine of information and advice about mental health during pregnancy. You can also find self-help resources, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) tools. These resources provide a flexible option for women who may be unable to attend face-to-face appointments due to work or childcare commitments.
Mobile apps like ‘Baby Buddy’ and ‘Mum’s Mental Health’ are available for download and are designed to support women through pregnancy and early motherhood. These apps provide a wealth of information and practical tips, as well as mood tracking and relaxation techniques.
Online cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is another service you can access through the NHS. This can be a great option if you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression. It involves working with a therapist online to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours.
Support Networks for Perinatal Mental Health
In addition to formal NHS services, there are also various support networks available. These can be enormously helpful in managing your mental health during pregnancy.
Peer support networks are a great resource. Groups such as Netmums, Mumsnet and The Smile Group offer online forums where you can share your experiences and hear from other women who are going through similar situations.
Support is also available from charities like Mind and PANDAS (Pre and Postnatal Depression Advice and Support). They offer helplines, email support, and online resources.
Help Beyond the NHS: Scholar and Google Resources
In addition to NHS resources and support networks, you may find it beneficial to explore resources available through Google Scholar. Here, you can access a wealth of scholarly articles and research papers on perinatal mental health. These can provide insight into the latest research and treatment options.
Google Books is another valuable resource. It provides access to numerous books on the subject of perinatal mental health, which can help you better understand your own experiences.
Remember, while these resources can provide valuable information, they do not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with healthcare professionals when making decisions about your treatment and care.
The Role of NHS England in Addressing Perinatal Mental Health Issues
NHS England plays a crucial role in providing support for perinatal mental health problems. As the largest health service in the UK, it offers various programs and initiatives targeting the mental wellbeing of pregnant women and new mothers.
One key program is the Perinatal Mental Health Community Services Development Fund. Launched in 2016, this fund aims to improve access to high-quality perinatal mental health care for women in all parts of England by 2021. It supports the establishment of specialist community perinatal mental health teams and the development of links with primary and secondary care services.
Moreover, NHS England is working to improve the availability and quality of data on perinatal mental health. This data is crucial to understanding the scale of mental health problems in the perinatal period, developing effective interventions, and monitoring the impact of services and programs.
NHS England also provides guidelines and standards for health care professionals to ensure they offer appropriate care for women with perinatal mental health problems. These guidelines are developed based on the latest research, including articles from Google Scholar and PubMed Crossref, and are regularly updated to reflect new knowledge and best practices.
Conclusion: The Importance of Seeking Mental Health Support
Pregnancy and the postnatal period are times of significant change and potential stress for women, leading to an increased risk of mental health problems. However, help is available, and it’s important not to suffer in silence.
NHS services, from your GP to specialist perinatal mental health teams, are there to provide support and care. Digital tools like websites, apps, and online therapy offer flexible options for managing your mental health in your own time and space. Support networks can provide a sense of community and understanding. Scholarly resources on Google Scholar and Google Books can deepen your understanding of perinatal mental health.
Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as looking after your physical health during pregnancy. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to seek help. Early intervention can make a significant difference, leading to better outcomes for both you and your baby. You’re not alone – there’s a wealth of support out there, and it’s OK to reach out and use it.
From using NHS digital tools, to exploring scholarly resources, to participating in support networks – you have a multitude of options to better manage perinatal mental health. As you navigate through your pregnancy journey, remember this golden rule: Your mental health matters, always.
