Welcoming a baby into your life can be an incredibly joyful experience but it may also bring stress and emotional changes. It’s a major life transition and while some people adjust easily, others may find it more challenging.
Emotional or mental health challenges
If you're pregnant or have recently had a baby and notice that your emotions are affecting your daily life, you might be going through a period of emotional difficulty.
Expectant mothers, fathers, and partners can all experience difficulties such as anxiety, low mood or depression during this time.
Around 1 in 5 women encounter emotional or mental health challenges during pregnancy. Around 1 in 10 dads may experience low mood or other mental health difficulties while their partner is expecting.
Getting the support you need
With the support of loved ones such as partners, friends and family, many people begin to feel better quite quickly. There’s also a wide network of professionals ready to help.
Speaking with your GP or midwife is a great first step. They’ve heard it all before and are there to support you.
Local support and advice services
The following services also offer a wealth of information and support locally here in Royal Greenwich and are here to help you on your parenting journey.
- Akwaaba – A friendly and supportive group aimed at the global majority and black women.
- Helix – A specialist therapeutic service for women and birthing people who live in Bexley, Bromley or Greenwich who are experiencing emotional distress or mental health difficulties following a perinatal loss.
- The Bexley, Bromley and Greenwich Perinatal Service – Specialist assessment and intervention for people who want help with their mental health during pregnancy and up to one year after birth.
- Mighty Acorns – Support for families with children under 3 who have a medical disability, serve and complex needs or special educational needs.
- Young Mum’s Aid – Support for young mothers aged 25 and under who are experiencing mild to moderate mental health difficulties during the perinatal period.
- Extra help for you - perinatal parenting – Supporting your wellbeing during your pregnancy, childbirth and early childhood.
- Empowering and Supporting Mothers | Motivational Mums Club – Peer support group that supports expectant and new mums of black heritage with their mental health.
- Quaggy Counselling – Provides perinatal counselling to parents (mums, dads and birthing partners) through weekly telephone or face-to-face counselling.