Dated perceptions ‘preventing parents from seeking mental health support’

A new survey has indicated that new parents are going without mental health support because they feel too afraid to seek help.

The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) has polled 2,000 new mothers and fathers, finding that 41 percent experienced anxiety, depression or another mental health issue during or after pregnancy with their first child.

However, only 46 percent of these considered seeking help from a healthcare professional, with the majority relying on their partners or other relatives for support. Of those who did not seek professional support, 26 percent explained that they were too afraid.

Meanwhile, 11 percent did not know that support was available from healthcare staff, with men shown to be less likely than women to seek help.

According to the RCN, these findings reflect the fact that many people worry that going through depression or anxiety means they will be deemed unfit parents, a perception that is incorrect.

Carmel Bagness, professional lead for midwifery and women's health at the RCN, said: "Too many women and men are suffering in silence because of outdated stigmas.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."