Mental Health Awareness

On the 10th October 2021 it was Mental Health Awareness Day. Now, you all know that I’ve been very transparent with my mental health struggles since birth, and I wanted to continue to share this process with you all.

On the 13th October I had a phone call with a service called ‘We are with you’ after my Health Visitor made a referral based on my score on the anxiety questionnaire I completed. The phone call was really helpful to go through what I’ve experienced and to share it with someone who is completely separate to my everyday life. I’m lucky to have an amazing support network, but I don’t ever want to feel like a burden to people when I share how I feel (my views, not anyone else’s) so it’s nice to have someone completely unbiased or involved to speak to.

After my phone call had come to an end they suggested that I go through low intensity CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) to try and help me with some guided coping mechanisms when I get anxious or get intrusive thoughts about Ivy coming to any sort of harm. I will begin this on the 3rd November over the phone. The sessions are 30 minutes long and I’m intrigued to see what is suggested to me and whether it helps me or not. 

So many Mums feel ashamed to share their mental health struggles as they believe it makes them look weak or that they can’t cope with having a baby. The truth is, I’m very capable of looking after Ivy, and she is a very happy and contented baby, but I need to look after my mental health too. I felt a shift after giving birth, and yes a lot of these anxieties are probably just ‘normal everyday Mum anxieties’ paired with the grief I’m going through, but I don’t want to be controlled by those, hence taking the step to contact this support. 

The website is: https://www.wearewithyou.org.uk/ for anyone who feels like they may want to explore this help too.