🤱 Maternal Mental Health
Motherhood is often portrayed as a joyful and exciting journey. However, for some people, pregnancy, childbirth and the first year of parenthood can be challenging and may affect both mental and physical wellbeing.
Maternal mental health matters because seeking support early can make a significant difference to both parent and child wellbeing.
Maternal Mental health refers to mental health problems which can occur during pregnancy or in the first year following the birth of a child. Approximately, 1 in 5 women experience a perinatal mental health problem. Around 70% of women can hide or underplay maternal mental health difficulties. Maternal Mental health is also one of the leading causes of maternal death in the first postnatal year. Therefore, considering the maternal mental health statistics it’s vital that we can spot the signs of someone struggling so that we can offer the support needed.
🧠 What is Maternal Mental Health?
Maternal mental health refers to mental health difficulties that can occur during pregnancy or within the first year after a baby is born.
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1 in 5 Women
Approximately 1 in 5 women experience a perinatal mental health difficulty.
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Often Hidden
Many women hide or underplay their difficulties, meaning they may not receive support straight away.
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Early Support Matters
Seeking support early can improve wellbeing and recovery.
⚠ Possible Causes and Risk Factors
Many different factors can contribute to maternal mental health difficulties.
🧠 Previous mental health difficulties
🌈 Neurodiversity
🤝 Lack of support
🚨 Domestic abuse
💷 Financial concerns
🧬 Biological and hormonal changes
💔 Birth trauma or baby loss
🔍 Recognising the Signs
Maternal mental health difficulties can affect everyone differently. Signs may include:
😔 Persistent low mood
😟 Anxiety and excessive worry
💤 Sleep difficulties
😢 Frequent crying
⚡ Feeling overwhelmed
🚫 Withdrawing from others
💭 Intrusive or distressing thoughts
🤍 Feeling disconnected from yourself or others
Learn more about recognising symptoms
💚 You Deserve Support
If you recognise any of these signs in yourself, please seek support. If you recognise them in someone close to you, encourage them to seek help.
🌿 Tips for Supporting Your Mental Health
📅 Create a Routine
A flexible routine can provide structure, predictability and reassurance during periods of change.
💗 Be Kind to Yourself
Talk to trusted friends or family members and challenge self-critical thoughts with compassion.
🚶 Physical Activity
When appropriate and medically advised, physical activity can support emotional wellbeing and mental health.
🤝 Ask for Help
Everyone needs support at times. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
🤝 Support and Advice
💙 Mind
Information about perinatal mental health and accessing support services.
Visit Mind
🎓 BPP Support
If you would like to talk to the Student Welfare and Support Team about anything you have read, or if you would like additional support, please reach out.
💚 Safeguarding and Wellbeing
Confidential support if maternal mental health difficulties are affecting your wellbeing, studies or daily life.
Contact Safeguarding and Wellbeing
🎓 Student Support
Support if your circumstances are affecting your engagement, attendance or studies.
📚 Sources and References
This page has been adapted using information from recognised maternal mental health organisations and healthcare providers.
This guidance has been adapted for BPP students and provides general information about maternal mental health, wellbeing and access to support.