Motherhood and pregnancy are often portrayed as an exciting time of joy, love and fulfilment. However, the reality for many mothers is far more complex.
Every woman faces their own challenges when it comes to pregnancy, and behind the smiles, excitement and warmth, can lie a myriad of struggles and emotions. Mixed with a surge in hormones and huge life changes, this can severely impact a new mum’s mental health.
Maternal Mental Health Month is observed annually throughout the month of May, to shed light on these issues, break stigmas, and provide support to new and expecting mothers.
What is maternal mental health?
Maternal mental health refers to the emotional well-being of mothers during pregnancy and the postpartum period. It includes a range of conditions, including postpartum depression, postpartum rage, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and psychosis.
The transition to motherhood is a significant life event for any woman of any age and is characterised by hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, physical recovery, and the overwhelming responsibility of caring for a newborn. Motherhood can also affect new mums’ relationships and friendships with others as they navigate their new responsibilities, which can have an overriding impact on their well-being.
Pressures of being a new mum
In today’s climate, there is so much pressure on women to be the ‘perfect mother’ – while ‘mum-fluencers’ take to Instagram to showcase their seemingly idyllic life. However, in reality, most mothers are juggling the stresses of motherhood, childcare, and work, all while trying to keep things going in the home.
Some mothers adapt seamlessly to these changes, but others may find themselves struggling to cope or grieving their old life – and this is completely normal.
Stigmas
The stigma surrounding maternal mental health remains a significant barrier to seeking help and support. In some cases, new mums worry they will be judged or face repercussions if they admit to experiencing mental health issues during or after pregnancy. But this stigma can prevent mothers from reaching out for help in a crucial time of their lives, potentially putting their own and their child’s well-being at risk.
Maternal Mental Health Month challenges this stigma by encouraging empathy, understanding, and acceptance of new mothers. It encourages open conversations, and education to create a safe space for mothers to speak about what issues they might be facing without fear of judgment.
Breaking the silence surrounding maternal mental health is essential not only for individual mothers but for society as a whole.
The importance of maternal mental health awareness
Maternal Mental Health Month plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the prevalence and impact of maternal mental health disorders. By starting conversations and sharing personal experiences, the month encourages women to talk and destigmatise these often misunderstood conditions.
Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month reminds mothers that they are not alone in their struggles and that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but of strength.
Awareness also extends to healthcare providers, policymakers, and the wider community. Healthcare professionals play a vital role in identifying and supporting women with maternal mental health disorders.
Increased awareness can lead to improved screening, diagnosis, and access to mental health services for mothers in need. Furthermore, policymakers may be prompted to allocate resources and develop policies that prioritize maternal mental health, ensuring that women receive the care and support they deserve.
Breaking the stigma
The stigma surrounding maternal mental health remains a significant barrier to seeking help and support. Many women fear judgment or repercussions if they admit to experiencing mental health issues during or after pregnancy. This stigma can prevent mothers from reaching out for help, exacerbating their suffering and potentially putting both their own health and the well-being of their children at risk.
Maternal Mental Health Month challenges this stigma by fostering empathy, understanding, and acceptance. It encourages open dialogue, education, and compassion, creating a safe space for mothers to share their stories without fear of judgment. Breaking the silence surrounding maternal mental health is essential not only for individual mothers but for society as a whole.
Coping mechanisms
Becoming a new mum can feel overwhelming at times, but there is help in place to help you navigate these tricky months or years. Depending on what you are experiencing, help is available, and never feel ashamed about how you are feeling as a new mum.
Speak to your NHS health visitor or midwife to let them know what you’re going through, and they will be able to issue advice to help.
The NHS website also provides some immediate advice for mothers and their babies.
Supporting mothers
Support is crucial for mothers struggling with maternal mental health disorders. Whether it’s through professional counselling, support groups, or community resources, every mother deserves access to the help she needs to navigate the challenges of motherhood.
Family, friends, and partners also play a vital role in supporting mothers’ mental health. Simple acts of kindness, such as offering to babysit, preparing a meal, or lending a listening ear, can make a world of difference to a new mum. By practical and emotional support to new mums, we can help alleviate their burden and promote healing and recovery.
Charities for new mums
MumsAid – mums-aid.org)
Home-Start – Supporting young mothers
Maternal Mental Health Alliance
PANDAS Foundation UK
Carol Cook joined Oakwood Solicitors in May 2017 to lead the Medical Negligence Department.
Carol handles a wide range of clinical, cosmetic and dental negligence claims and has years of experi…
