Referrals to specialist mental health service for new mums surge by 80%
Referrals to community mental health services for new mums in the South West have increased by around 80 per cent in the last three years.
Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust (AWP) received 4,816 referrals in 2024/25, up from 2,668 in 2022/23.
This coincides with Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs from May 5 to May 11, 2025.
Becky Eva, clinical development lead for specialist community perinatal mental health services at AWP, said: "There are several factors contributing to this recent increase, but it is likely that greater awareness of our services by clinicians and a better understanding of perinatal mental health, among the general public have played a significant role."
Read more: Swindon's Abbey Stadium developers respond to criticism
One mother, Becky from Bath, shared her experience: "The transition from woman to mother was one of the biggest, most confusing changes I've ever been through.
"I felt like I lost myself overnight."
Becky sought help from the AWP's specialist community perinatal mental health team towards the end of 2023.
She said: "Instead of judging me, they met me with so much empathy and understanding.
"I learned that intrusive thoughts like the ones I was facing are actually really common, especially in new mums."
For those experiencing mental health needs during pregnancy or post-natal period, AWP advises contacting a local GP, midwife, or health visitor for a referral to the specialist perinatal team.
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