Signposting
If you are struggling with your mental health or supporting someone who is, or you simply want to find out more about perinatal wellbeing, there are many organisations that can help, and this website is a great place to start.
OpenPAWS is the result of more than 10 years of collaborative working between researchers, healthcare providers, charities, and families with lived experience of perinatal mental health difficulties. This website provides evidence-based information about perinatal anxiety, worry, and emotional distress, assessment tools, and self-help resources. OpenPAWS is suitable for families, healthcare professionals, and other care providers.
You might also need information about other mental health difficulties or specific support services.
Click the links below to explore a range of local and national organisations that support families during pregnancy and early parenthood.
Mental Health Emergencies
If at any point, you become significantly anxious or distressed, we advise you to contact your GP, health visitor, or other healthcare provider.
If you need help during a mental health emergency or crisis, call 111 and select option 2 for your local NHS urgent mental health team, or 999 in a life-threatening emergency situation. You can also visit https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/
If you are struggling with any aspect of pregnancy or parenting, you should contact your Midwife or Health Visitor. They will be able to direct you to the most appropriate support in your local area. Some national services are listed below. You can also visit https://www.nhs.uk/baby/support-and-services/services-and-support-for-parents/