North Yorkshire is at the forefront of research into the effective support of mental wellbeing for pregnant women and new mothers.
North Yorkshire County Council, working with partners at Harrogate and District, South Tees and Airedale NHS foundation trusts, has commissioned researchers from Newcastle and Durham Universities to carry out an exploration of women’s needs and experiences living in rural communities during pregnancy and the early motherhood. The findings of the study will help in the design of public health and health care to address these needs.
North Yorkshire County Councillor Janet Sanderson, Executive Member for Children and Young People’s Services, said: “We know how important the mental health of mothers is. What we don’t know is how common mental health difficulties are in North Yorkshire for women during pregnancy and the early years of their baby’s life, and how we can improve services for these women. This study will make North Yorkshire a leader in research into learning what is effective in treating these problems.
“For example, in rural areas there are issues around mothers easily accessing the provision, so one of the things the researchers will be looking at is whether we can better use modern telecommunications to provide support to mothers wherever they may be.”
Women who are pregnant or have recently had a baby may be approached to take part in a survey when they have their 20-week scan, when they see their health visitor at 34 weeks or six weeks after having their baby.
In addition, the researchers are keen to hear from anyone who experienced anxiety, depression or other mental health issues, whether diagnosed on undiagnosed, during pregnancy or within a year after giving birth. They would like to hear views about how services can best be designed. To take part in an interview, email northyorksmmh@newcastle.ac.uk or call 0191 2083807.
Cllr Sanderson added: “The results of the survey will influence the services we commission and our health service colleagues will learn more about alternative ways of providing support to mothers who have perinatal mental health issues.”