Self-help resources for mum and dad

Becoming a parent is a major life change – whether it is a first baby or part of a growing family. It can be an exciting time, but also a challenging one. For the family unit to thrive and for baby to have the best start, the mental health and wellbeing of parents and carers is important.

Here are some tips to help you look after your mental health and wellbeing:

• Take care of yourself: Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly. Taking care of your physical health will help to improve your mental health.
• Set realistic expectations: Don't expect to be perfect, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Just do your best and be patient with yourself.
• Take some time for yourself: It's important to take some time for yourself each day, even if it's just for a few minutes. Do something that you enjoy and that helps you to relax.
• Practice self-care: Self-care is important for everyone, but it's especially important for people with mental health challenges. Make sure you're taking care of your physical and mental health.
• Find a support system: Having a support system of people who can understand what you're going through can be very helpful. This could include your partner, family, friends, or a support group. Use our session finder to find group sessions available.
• Talk to someone: It's important to talk to someone about how you're feeling. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or a trusted person. Talking about your feelings can help you to process them and feel better.

Useful links and resources

Here are some useful self-help videos, websites, tools and resources if you're not quite feeling yourself or you are suffering from low mood or anxiety.