Mental Health Problems
Parents with mental health problems
A lot of people do not understand and are therefore embarrassed by mental illness. That can make it difficult for mentally ill people and their friends and families to seek help. But mental health problems are actually very common - at any one time at least one in six people can be mentally ill. About 40% of people diagnosed with mental illness have at least one child who lives with them.
Protecting children
Many mentally ill parents can care for their children despite being unwell. But for some, their illness can affect their ability to give the children all they need to grow and develop, both physically and emotionally.
Occasionally, children are at risk of suffering significant harm because of their parents' illness. In this situation, it may be necessary for a child to be looked after in a "Place of Safety", under the direction of the Social Welfare Department.
If you think you may have a mental health problem or you are worried about someone else suffering from it, it is very important to contact your doctor so that you can get help, advice and treatment.
Postnatal depression
Postnatal depression is a very common problem.
- Between 50 - 80% of all mothers have "postnatal blues"
- Of these, up to 22% may experience depression
- Only a very small number go on to develop very severe depression
Some signs of depression are:
- loss of enjoyment and interest in things around them
- feeling depressed
- lack of energy and feeling exhausted
- lack of self-esteem and self-confidence
- feelings of guilt and pessimism
These come at a time when mothers feel they should be happy and fulfilled, which can make it more difficult for them to admit to the problem and seek help.
If you are feeling depressed, it is important to contact your doctor for advice and treatment. Other family members should be helpful and supportive, for the baby's sake as well as the mother's. It is very important that a baby feels safe and secure in the first few weeks of his/her life, and an adult needs to provide this security.
Young people with mental health problems
Children can have mental health problems too - between 10 - 20% of children and young people under 18 have experienced such problems. This can be very distressing for the child, parents and family. Like adults, they can vary from common disorders to serious mental illnesses.
If you're worried about your child, contact your doctor. It is also often helpful to talk with teachers and other professional people who know your child. They may be able to give you help and advice.
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