New mothers are facing a mental health crisis with postnatal checks failing to identify and provide adequate support. It's like they're drowning and can't get out.

(Image Source: https://metro.co.uk)

Amanda Richardson had troubles with anxiety and sleep and eating issues after the birth of her daughter. She stated that she felt alone after giving birth and didn't receive a postnatal check for her mental health. She began therapy 18 months after her daughter was born but believes that she would have been in a better situation if she had received the right care. She expressed that it felt like she was 'underwater and couldn't escape'.

Healthwatch England recently conducted a survey of 2,700 people who had recently given birth, finding that two-thirds had experienced mental health issues and 41% had not received any support. Only one in five were content with the mental health care they were given. Consequently, Healthwatch England is making recommendations to NHS England and local health bodies to try and improve the six-week check.



(Image Source: https://metro.co.uk)

Amanda Richardson experienced anxiety and sleeping and eating issues after having her daughter. She noted that she felt alone and unsupported after the baby was born, and was not made aware of the postnatal assessment. 18 months after her daughter was born, she began therapy which has helped her recover. Amanda acknowledges that if she had received the right care at the right time, her mental health would be better.

Healthwatch England recently released a survey which demonstrates a lack of assistance for parents, as two-thirds of the 2,700 respondents had difficulty with their mental health. Unfortunately, only one in five stated that they were happy with the care they got. A majority of those surveyed were not provided with any help for their mental health, and 15% had their check-up over the phone, which could be a deterrent from speaking out. The organisation has consequently made proposals to NHS England and local health systems to improve the six-week check.

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