A new survey highlights the widespread distress caused by depression and anxiety during and after pregnancy.
The survey was commissioned by the Royal College of Nursing in 2015. It asked 2,000 mothers and fathers of children under five years of age about their experiences concerning mental health.
This showed that 41% of new mothers and fathers experienced anxiety, depression or another mental health issue during or after the pregnancy of their first child.
However, only 46% of these parents considered seeking help from a health care professional. In 26% of cases this was due to being "too afraid". In reality, the parent in distress turns to their partner or another relative for support.
Results appear today (4 May) – World Maternal Mental Health Day.
"There is still a stigma around mental health which must be addressed, but this stigma can be even more prevalent when it comes to new parents, which could stop them from accessing the right support," warns Carmel Bagness of the Royal College of Nursing.
"All health care staff should be aware of the importance of the mental wellbeing of mothers and fathers," she adds. "Employers should provide training to ensure that every member of staff knows how to talk about these issues with parents, and how to encourage parents to be open about their mental health.
Ms Bagness believes: "Too many women and men are suffering in silence because of outdated stigmas. Too often, attitudes towards mental health are not fit for the 21st Century. Today should act as a reminder to parents that help is out there, and health care staff are available to discuss any concerns before or after birth."
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