28 February 2007
Dear Sir,
The new guidelines urging doctors and midwives to better care for mothers experiencing mental illness during pregnancy and in the first year after giving birth are good news for mothers and babies (GPs urged to check pregnant women's mental health, 28 Feb).
There is good evidence to show that the children of mothers with a mental health problem are more vulnerable to mental illness when they grow up. Therefore, initiatives that protect the mental health of a mother will protect the mental health of her baby. This new clinical guidance will enable intervention at the earliest stage possible, and could prevent mental health problems cycling through the generations.
When it comes to mental illness, far too little attention is paid to early intervention. Often, people suffer severe and enduring mental health problems for months or years before they receive professional help.
Dr. Andrew McCulloch
Chief Executive
The Mental Health Foundation
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