Baby blues

As parents whether you are a single parent, a mum, dad or carer we all want to do what’s best to keep our children safe, fit and well. However, it can be easy to forget about our own health and well-being. If as parents we have a positive attitude, a good social outlook and a healthy lifestyle it is often the case that our children will too. You should have your postnatal check about six weeks after your baby’s birth to make sure that you feel well and are recovering properly and to discuss contraception etc.

Family life plays an important role in the well-being of both children and parents. Doing active and creative things together can really boost happiness levels all round. Children’s centres can be great places for you to socialise and meet other parents as well as giving your child the opportunity to meet friends. Sometimes it can be a bit daunting when meeting a group of complete strangers, but it can be an easy way to meet new people and make friends, after all, you all have something in common - your children!

We are often our children’s first teachers and they not only learn about practical things from us, but pick up on attitudes that can last a lifetime. It is important to take care of your own physical and mental health in order to be able to ‘parent’ well.

Some women experience depression after having a baby and this is more common than many people realise. It can develop within the first few weeks after giving birth, or may not occur until around six months after the birth. Some women feel they are unable to look after their baby or they feel too anxious to leave the house or keep in touch with friends. Treatment will benefit both your health and the healthy development of your baby, as well as your relationship with your partner, family and friends. Seeking help for postnatal depression does not mean you are a bad mother or unable to cope. Talk to your health visitor or GP about how you feel.