Worried about being sectioned

[Clink321]

I'm currently suffering with pnd after I had my son. I'm under the perinatal team and started meds but I've gradually got worse. I'm so worried that if I open up a out how I feel they will section me or send me to a mother and baby unit. I'm not sure where I stand with permission. I'm not psycotic i dont think, just very up and down and am self harming a lot. I spoke to my clinical lead earlier and she mentioned a mother and baby unit so I just shut down and didn't want to tell her what I was feeling or doing. I'm not a risk to my children so does anyone know where I would stand? I want to get help but so scared when they visit next I'll be forced to go.

Hi @Clink321,

We're so sorry that you're going through such a tough time. We're just giving your thread a bump to get it back into Active Conversations - hopefully there'll be some Mumsnetters along shortly with some advice and support for you.

In the meantime, we thought we'd add some links to organisations that can give you some support in real life. There's PANDAS foundation - they have a helpline open from 9am to 8pm every day on 0808 196 1776, as well as offering online support and local support groups.

It's also worth looking at the information on Mind's website - there's information on postnatal depression and postnatal mental health. They also have links to specialist support services.

And here's the link to the NHS page on finding postnatal depression information and support services in your area.

Sending good wishes from all at MNHQ.

Giving this thread another gentle bump.

You will not be forced into an MBU unless you are ill enough that you need to be, and having suffered with 'just' PND, I am sure I wasn't always the best judge of my own ability/ competence

It is good that you recognise that you need help. Please please do get some help.

Perhaps they mentioned the MBU to see whether it would be something that you would want. I was an outpatient at one and at my initial appointment they asked me if I wanted to stay (or something along those lines, it was many years ago). I declined and they accepted that, I just went there for various appointments.

Just keep engaging with the people who are here to help and listen. It’s not their end goal to get you sectioned but they want to ensure they are doing everything they can to keep you safe.

I was very honest about how I felt and nobody ever mentioned taking my baby away. I’m sorry that you are going through this, it’s a very hard time but you can get better. It’s best for you to accept all the help that is on offer. I wish you all the best, please be kind to yourself.

I feel the same that I can’t be open and honest out of fear of being judged and something horrible happening like being under social services, child protection or sectioned

I felt/feel similar to you and particularly at the mo it seems they are reluctant to send people to MBUs