News Release, 28 February 2007
The UK’s leading mental health research charity welcomed new guidelines urging doctors and midwives to better care for mothers experiencing mental illness during pregnancy and in the first year after giving birth.
On the day the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence issued the guidelines, Dr Andrew McCulloch, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation, said:
“There is overwhelming 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 ongoing mental health problems through generations.
“The guidelines should also help reduce the stigma that surrounds mental health and pregnancy, making it more likely for a woman to feel comfortable telling a doctor or midwife if she is feeling mentally unwell. Currently, many women suffer because they can’t get support or don’t know that their mental health problem is treatable.”
Ends
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Notes to editors
For further information please contact the Press Office on 020 7803 1128 / 1130 or email the press office
The Mental Health Foundation uses research and practical projects to help people survive, recover from and prevent mental health problems. We work to influence policy, including government at the highest levels. And we use our knowledge to raise awareness and to help tackle the stigma attached to mental illness. We reach millions of people every year through our media work, information booklets and online services.
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