S01 EP09: Mental health - it's normal to struggle

Unexpected Beginnings: The Neonatal Unit

This episode looks at how it’s almost expected for parents to struggle with their mental health when they have spent time in neonatal. The unit is traumatic and intense and parents can spend weeks feeling on edge and fearful and that is bound to have an impact. Here we look at some of the common mental health issues parents can have, at why they occur and at some of the support that is available.

There are also some charitable organisations that can be really helpful including

• Bliss – they offer advice for parents of premature and sick babies, including looking after your mental health
• Mind – for better mental health

Views and experiences shared in this podcast belong to the individuals, shared in the interests of helping others and do not constitute medical advice. For medical advice please contact your GP, midwife, health visitor, local Maternity Assessment Unit or 111. In an emergency please dial 999.

This podcast was made with Leeds Children’s hospitaland funded by Leeds Hospital’s Charity.

This podcast was recorded and produced by Under the Mast– creative audio productions. and was presented byCaroline Verdon and Kerry Bickerdike