Help for struggling expectant mums

New and expectant mums in Falkirk don't know where to go to get help if they are struggling with their mental health, according to the organisers of a new project.

Penumbra wants to improve mental health for new mothers by enhancing well-being and tackling stigma through pregnancy and up to a year after the birth.

Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental health problems women experience during pregnancy.

The Perinatal Mental Health Project has been funded by See Me, the national programme to end mental health stigma and discrimination.

William Wright from Penumbra said: “Those affected by perinatal mental health conditions can be stigmatised by wider society or family members, this can have a negative impact on the mum’s mental health and well’being.

Judith Robertson, See Me programme director, said: “Too many new and expectant mothers feel alone and don’t know where to turn if they are struggling with their mental health.’’

Penumbra has been running sessions around Falkirk in January and is holding a peri-natal mental health event in February. Contact [email protected] for more information.