“You are not alone “

Supporting post-natal mental health through positive steps.

Giving birth to a baby is often seen as a joyful major milestone. But for some women the post-natal period can be overwhelming, lonely and emotionally difficult.

As a therapist, I work closely with women who are navigating this transition. Whether you are experiencing anxiety, low mood, feeling numb or simply not feeling yourself, it is important to know you are not alone.

This is why I am proud to support and align my practice with the Positive Steps campaign from the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). The campaign is encouraging women to take early action and embrace therapy as a positive empowering step forward.

It is estimated that 1 in 5 women experience mental health issues during pregnancy and up to many years following the birth of their child.

This may look like

Low mood

Emotional numbness

Difficulties bonding with your baby and feeling disconnected from yourself and others

Anxiety

Identity shifts

Birth trauma

Difficulty sleeping, even when the baby sleeps

These feelings and experiences are common and not often talked about or shared. Parents often feel the pressure to appear happy and grateful. Therapy can offer a space where you can share and make sense of your feelings. The Positive Steps Campaign encourages people to talk to a qualified therapist. Therapy isn’t a last resort; it is a proactive and compassionate form of care that can make a real difference.

As a BACP registered therapist, I know first-hand that therapy can make a difference and offer support to parents, allowing them to gain confidence reconnect with themselves and it provided a space for this to take place. My work is grounded in empathy and collaboration. Some clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, disconnected and unsure how to express what is happening, others arrive carrying shame at not feeling the joy they had expected. Therapy can help you feel less alone and more connected to yourself.

If you are anew mum, a struggling parent or someone supporting others through this transition, please know that you do not have to face this alone. If you are curious about starting therapy or just want to know more, I am happy to talk.