Mental Health and Well-Being In Pregnancy

It’s completely normal to have times when you are worried or anxious when you’re pregnant. Try to share any concerns with your partner, friends or family. 1 in 5 mums and 1 in 8 dads experience some type of anxiety or depression during this time. It is very common for parents to have challenges with their mental health especially during pregnancy and for up to 2 years afterwards.  You're not alone! 

Your mental health and well-being is just as important as your physical health, so whatever you're worried about, don't bottle it up – you are important and there is help available if you need it.

It's important to remember that seeking help and advice is a positive and brave step. That's why we've put together a guide to services that can support your mental health when you need it, on this page and on our Perinatal Mental Health Pathway. We're here to help you every step of the way.

Tommy's You are your baby's mum tool helps you create a wellbeing plan for your pregnancy and after your baby is born.

If you'd like help and information on taking care of yourself specifically during pregnancy, have a look at Tommy's mental wellbeing page.

Parenting courses

We also have FREE tried-and-tested parenting courses for parents who are expecting a baby to help with:

• some of the difficulties many new parents experience, which can lead to depression and/or problems within relationships.
• exploring hopes and fears for the future after having children.
• improving bonding and having a better understanding of what your baby needs and wants.
• Improving the health of mums, partners and babies both in pregnancy and after giving birth.

Visit our parenting programmes page for more information.

Having a baby can make you feel happy, sad, or worried. You might need support for lots of different reasons.

If you live in the Bradford district, Little Minds Matter can support you and your family to get the best possible start in life.

We are a small specialist team, with people from a range of backgrounds who can help you to:

• Think about your relationship with your baby
• Talk through concerns you may have about your baby
• Consider the thoughts and experiences of your baby
• Think about how your previous experiences are affecting you now
• Build your enjoyment and confidence in being a parent

The team will try to see you face-to-face at a time and place that suits you, including home visits or clinics in community venues. If that’s not possible, they’ll arrange to contact you through video or phone.

How to contact Little Minds Matter

You can contact the team Monday to Friday for an initial friendly chat:

Tel: 07766 568407

Email: LMMsupport@bdct.nhs.uk 

You can also visit the Little Minds Matter webpage.

If you feel down, anxious or lonely during pregnancy, Family Action's Perinatal Support Service have peer supporters and trained volunteers with parenting and mental health experience who understand the challenges.

They can support your emotional health and wellbeing by providing a listening ear, offering advice and helping you take part in local groups and activities.

To find out more or request support, visit the Bradford Perinatal Support Service Facebook page, contact Family Action by email at perinatalsupport@family-action.org.uk, or call 07966 926849.