Mental health support for new and expecting parents in south west London

Becoming a parent

Pregnancy and becoming a parent can be exciting, but it's not always easy. Many people experience difficult emotions during pregnancy or after having a baby.

If you live in south west London and are pregnant, or have had a baby in the last 12 months, you can get support from NHS Talking Therapies. You'll be offered priority access so you can get help sooner.

Hear from Laura in the Merton Talking Therapies team about how NHS Talking Therapies can support you:

Who South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust support

The Trust works with mothers, partners and fathers. You don’t need a diagnosis or to be in crisis to reach out.

People come to with a wide range of experiences. You might be feeling anxious or low, constantly worried, or overwhelmed. You may be finding it hard to adjust to parenthood or struggling after a difficult birth.

The Trust can help you with:

• Managing your mood and emotional wellbeing
• Coping with stress and every day demands
• Challenging unhelpful thoughts
• Overcoming worrying
• Coping with uncertainty and change
• Support for fear of childbirth (tokophobia)
• Support after a difficult or traumatic birth
• Support for obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours (OCD)

The support on offer

• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) delivered one-to-one
• Workshops
• Online groups where you can connect with other parents
• Practical ways to support your wellbeing

Finding what's right for you starts by listening to what you're experiencing and working with you to find the right support.

How to get help

You don't have to manage the emotional challenges of pregnancy or becoming a parent on your own. Support is available when you're ready.

• Talk to a healthcare professional, such as your GP, midwife or health visitor, or
• Refer yourself online at www.swlstg.nhs.uk/talking-therapies