“Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week (MMHA) is a week-long campaign dedicated to talking about mental health problems during and after pregnancy,” said Natalie Don MSP (SNP – Renfrewshire North & West), commenting on Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week which runs from Monday 2nd May 2022 until Sunday 8th May 2022.

This week is all about raising public and professional awareness of perinatal mental health problems, advocating for women affected by it, changing attitudes and helping families access the information, care and support they need to recover.

Organised and led by MMHA member, the Perinatal Mental Health Partnership UK (PMHP UK), the overall theme of this year’s MMHA is the ‘power of connection’ though each day will have a slightly different focus ranging from what is Maternal Mental Health to Smashing the Stigma and Perinatal Positivity Pot.

Natalie Don MSP added:

“It is extremely important that we continue to highlight and break the stigma around maternal mental health issues, not just this week but every day. There is so much pressure on women and mums and I know many women fear that admitting there is a problem might lead to doubts over your ability to parent. This is completely wrong. Pregnancy, childbirth and parenting can affect women in very different ways and it is extremely common for mums to struggle with their mental health during and after pregnancy. The pandemic, which brought new and complex challenges for pregnant women and parents has exasperated this even more so now more than ever we need to ensure that support is available for mothers, fathers and families.

“I would encourage any pregnant woman or parents who are suffering from poor mental health, no matter how insignificant you feel it might be, to seek support. No one will think you are a bad parent and the most important thing is that you and your baby get the support you need. There are many groups and health professionals where you can seek support but even starting at home, speaking to friends and family can make a huge difference.”

Further Information available at: https://maternalmentalhealthalliance.org/news/maternal-mental-health-awareness-week-2022/