The Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has initiated a series of events aimed at providing essential support to pregnant women and new parents in managing their mental health.
These events, which will be facilitated by the trust, will comprise free drop-in sessions held at various libraries throughout the county. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with other parents and gain insights into the range of specialist services available to them.
Anthony Mobee-Dumi, representing the trust, highlighted the prevalence of mental health challenges among expectant and new mothers, noting that more than 20% of women experience such difficulties during and after pregnancy. Additionally, he underscored the significance of mental health support for fathers, with statistics indicating that 10% of them face mental health struggles during their partner’s pregnancy and early parenthood.
Kicking off with a refreshing walk around the picturesque grounds of Northampton’s Delapre Abbey, these events will subsequently feature visits from the trust’s Specialist Perinatal Mental Health team to libraries across Kettering, Towcester, Rushden, Oundle, Wellingborough, Weston Favell, Corby, Desborough, and Moulton.
The dedicated Perinatal Mental Health team offers comprehensive assessment and treatment services tailored to women experiencing, or at risk of developing, mental health conditions during pregnancy and the initial 12 months postpartum. Additionally, the trust emphasizes the availability of counseling services for individuals who have previously encountered severe mental illness and are contemplating pregnancy.
By providing accessible and supportive platforms for expectant and new parents, these events serve as invaluable resources in promoting mental well-being during the crucial phases of pregnancy and early parenthood.
