I saw Mumsnet posting about postpartum care. Something struck me that maybe could be made into a petition.
Depression can creep in before you've had a baby, in the antenatal stages, and afterwards. Would or do you support the idea that professionals device a quick questionnaire, so MW/HV and HP can assess if you're at risk of or are suffering mental health issues.
It could be instigated at 24 weeks and every MW visit after, or if you're high risk and receive more MW care, every 2 weeks at the antenatal stage, then weekly postpartum till 8 weeks, with a monthly follow up after.
My experience of PND, was it took me a long time to get the guts to admit it. When I did it was a new HV who didn't follow it up. By assessing patients with a quick 1 minute chat, they can assess if you are at risk of suffering mental health issues, or if you're in the midst of suffering. Allowing help to be sough so you are not alone.
I don't know if it's daft, or if I'm just going from my experiences, but it takes a lot to say, actually I'm struggling.
I think provisions for MH in particular are unsatisfactory, all the stories you read of mothers taking drastic measures, could have been prevented.
I know that time is precious, but taking 1 minute to assess a pre/postpartum mother could make such a difference. Especially for those who suffer PPP, these need help as promptly as possible.
Just wondered what your thoughts were.