Support Guide: The Mental Health of New Parents

Pregnancy and the arrival of a new baby are undoubtedly some of life's most transformative and joyful moments. However, this period can also be incredibly challenging, bringing about significant adjustments and stressors that may affect the mental health of new parents. In fact, had experienced mental health issues during or after pregnancy. And non-birthing parents are also not exempt from struggling with mental health.

Parents may not know where to begin seeking adequate support. So, providing a supportive network is essential for parents bringing up their little ones.

Kelly Nairne, Marketing Director at Bugaboo, global pushchairs innovators, says: “New parents are presented with an array of challenges, especially during the first year of parenthood. Stepping into this new territory and aspiring to be exemplary parents often leads to overwhelming worry. Various factors can contribute to mental health concerns for new parents. However, with the right support and tools, they can navigate these challenges and strive for optimal well-being, fostering a healthy and positive environment for the whole family to grow together.”

The struggles of early parenthood

Data shows that some of the biggest concerns for first-time mums include money worries (31%), isolation and loneliness (18%), and fear that they would be unable to cope (12%). It’s common for parents to hold themselves up to high standards but this can often cause more stress, concern, and self-doubt.

From not getting enough sleep to never experiencing a newborn before, there’s a lot that can mentally and physically drain a new parent. Being able to spot the signs of your own mental health issues, or the signs in other new parents, means that you can raise the right questions to medical professionals or loved ones, and get the support you need.

What mental health issues do new parents experience?

Such worries and pre-existing conditions might manifest in various mental health issues. The most common is postnatal depression. According to the NHS, one in ten women experiences postnatal depression. Men are also not immune to it. Psychiatrist Saqib Bajwa notes that during the initial three to six months following birth, approximately 8% to 10% of non-birthing partners commonly experience a broad spectrum of intense emotions, with depression making an appearance.

It has also been found that 36% of new parents develop anxiety, 12% struggle with post-natal depression, and almost two-thirds (63%) of new mums said that their self-esteem had suffered since becoming a parent. Being able to manage a new little one in your life, as well as your daily routine, isn’t an easy thing to do and sometimes you need that extra little bit of support to aid you through.

Tips for bettering your mental health as a new parent

Improving your mental health while navigating parenthood may seem challenging. Still, there are many ways you can incorporate well-being techniques into your routine and give your mental health a boost.

Build a support system

Having a support group, whether it’s family or a social group, is key for new parents’ mental health, especially given the time spent away from their usual social circle. In fact, 51% of people said they turn to their families for help and advice.

Connecting with other parents navigating similar experiences can also help you build a support system and gain a sense of camaraderie, whether through local parenting groups, online forums, or social media communities. Sharing your challenges and successes with others who understand can be immensely comforting and help combat feelings of isolation.

Make use of parental leave

Take time for yourself and your baby by making use of parental leave. This can help alleviate some of the challenges that come with welcoming a new member of the family, allows non-birthing partners to support their new little family, and gives you time to bond with your baby without the distraction of work.

It is important to know the benefits and allowances you’re allowed as a family expecting or with a newborn. Being able to spend this time together can help you settle into new routines, remove external stressors, and encourage as much rest as you can have with a little one before jumping back into a workspace.

Prioritise self-care

Self-care can often be put on the back burner when it comes to a newborn, but making sure it is a priority can help improve your mood, confidence, and stress. This could be as simple as taking a few minutes to enjoy a hot cup of tea, taking a bath away from everyone, or engaging in a hobby you enjoy. It's important to recharge your batteries so that you have the energy you need to keep your baby happy and healthy.

Trying mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises or yoga, can help reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance your overall well-being. You can incorporate these into your day-to-day by practicing these techniques during the first nap time of the day or as a morning routine.

Kelly Nairne, Marketing Director at Bugaboo commented: “Taking a walk in nature can also have great benefits for your mental, and physical, health. Strolls with your baby in the park can be a very mindful experience, where you can enjoy some alone time with your little one or even use it as an opportunity to connect with a loved one.”

Make your life easier

One of the biggest contributors to poor mental health for new parents is the stress of navigating their daily routine and all things parenthood. With the addition of feed times and changing nappies, doing the common household tasks can become overwhelming.

But by investing in high-quality baby products that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, you’ll be able to multi-task these additional asks with a bit more ease. From a pushchair that easily folds away, to a milk warmer, to an electric baby swing that can help your newborn relax, there is an array of products designed to help you..

Where to get support?

While coping with your mental health as a new parent can be challenging, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone on your journey, and there are many ways you can get support from friends, family, and medical professionals.

Speak with your healthcare practitioner

For those who might not have a big support network or if you simply want some more expert advice, reaching out to a medical professional can help get you the support and guidance you need.

You can reach out to your midwife or GP any time you have concerns about your mental health. They will be able to assist you with seeking specialised help, better support, or simply to hear you out.

Social support through groups

Having people you can connect with is essential when it comes to being a new parent. Whether this is your family and friends or others in the same position as you, being able to reach out and gain support from your peers can help you through the more difficult aspects of being a new parent (and even enjoy the milestones together).

Social media groups can be a good place to find like-minded parents with tips, tricks, and guidance on looking after your newborn, as well as offering the emotional support you need. Reaching out to your family and friends when you need help is also important – they're there for you, so use them.

Conclusion

Prioritising mental health can be difficult when you are looking after a newborn, but spending time prioritising yourself is just as important during the early stages. The path to parenthood is different for each individual, and acknowledging both joys and difficulties is crucial to building a healthy and happy family.