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Parents and carers with mental health difficulties

Effective prevention, early detection and treatment of poor mental health in the perinatal period and early years is important, due to the far-reaching consequences of mental ill-health on children’s development and outcomes. It is important that childcare workers can recognise if a new parent or carer is suffering from poor mental health and can help them to access appropriate support.

Starting a new family can be hugely exciting, but it can also be stressful. It is a time of change and transition for parents and extended caregivers, and for some it can be challenging.

Anyone from any background can experience mental health difficulties. Most people who experience mental health difficulties can recover from them or learn to live with them, particularly if they get the right support early on. Most parents and carers who struggle with their mental health are able to cope with their condition and continue to parent and provide a safe and loving home for their children.

Effective prevention, early detection and treatment of poor mental health in the perinatal period and early years is important, due to the far-reaching consequences of mental ill-health on children’s development and outcomes. It is important that childcare workers can recognise if a new parent or carer is suffering from poor mental health and can help them to access appropriate support.

Get free advice emailed to you

Early Years in Mind is a free online network for early years practitioners. The network provides easy to read and easy to use guidance on supporting the mental health of babies, young children and their families.