What mental health conditions are linked to being a mother?

There’s a popular misconception that mothers will only face one type of mental illness in the form of ‘the blues’. A 2024 report from Public Health Scotland found that approximately 25% of mothers who gave birth between 2018 and 2022 had previous contact with mental health services, indicating an ongoing need for accessible support. Although it can be a great experience, being a mum is linked to a wide variety of challenges, including: 

Postnatal and antenatal depression

Postnatal depression can occur after pregnancy and perinatal depression can occur during it. Regardless, they share similar experiences and symptoms. The main symptoms of these are feeling down, low self-esteem, disturbed sleep and loss of energy. Some mothers also experience feelings of being detached from their baby or partner. 

Postpartum Psychosis 

Postpartum psychosis is a severe mental health condition that can occur within the first few weeks after giving birth. It is characterised by symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, severe mood swings and disorganised thinking. Postpartum psychosis can also lead to heightened risks for both the mother and the infant, making early recognition and treatment crucial. 

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and intrusive thoughts  

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) can occur at any stage of pregnancy or post-pregnancy. Obsessions are unwanted thoughts and compulsions are actions you feel you must do. This mental health condition involves both obsessions and compulsions, which for new mothers revolve around the health of the baby.  

Generalised anxiety and stress 

Hormonal changes, sleep deprivation and the pressures of balancing various responsibilities are key factors contributing to heightened anxiety and stress. Untreated anxiety and stress can have long-term effects on both the mother and child. 

Post Traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) 

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder caused by a traumatic event, which for some mothers can be due to giving birth. 40% of mothers in Scotland have experienced a traumatic birth. This mental health condition can make day-to-day living difficult, which is amplified when caring for a newborn.  

The “touched out” phenomenon 

New mothers often experience a sensation called “touched out,” resulting from constant physical contact with their infants. This sensory overload can lead to feelings of irritation and overwhelm. 

mental health challenges for stepmothers 

Motherhood is not defined by giving birth. Stepmothers play an important role in blended families, yet their experiences and challenges are often overlooked. It can come with complex emotions, shifting family dynamics and societal expectations. The lack of recognition for their role can increase stress and anxiety. 

Research shows that stepmothers, compared to biological mothers, report higher levels of stress, anxiety and poorer mental health outcomes. They may experience self-doubt and uncertainty about their role, particularly when managing relationships with stepchildren and co-parents. 

It can take time to adjust and often there is a pressure to immediately establish that parental bond, initially leading to feelings of isolation and inadequacy. Tensions may occur with biological parents with shifting family roles and the challenge of balancing personal boundaries with expectations. 

Despite these challenges, there is often little discussion or support available for stepmothers but they are entitled to and deserve parental support where available. Stepmothers need understanding and the space to discuss their challenges without judgement. 

How can I support my mental health as a mum? 

If you are experiencing these mental health problems it is important to look after yourself, for you and your child. Here are some support suggestions: 

Remember you are not a bad parent 

Rremember how common these conditions are to mothers and experiencing them does not make you a bad parent. Thinking about these conditions shows that you are thinking about your baby – that’s good parenting. 

Talk to a medical professional 

It is important to seek help. Medical professionals such as your midwife, health visitor or GP are knowledgeable about these common mental health conditions and can direct you to further sources of support. 

Prioritise self-care  

Take care of your physical and emotional wellbeing. Exercise, eat well and ensure enough sleep. A family walk not only promotes good mental health but also enhances your bond with your child. Here are some other exercises that can boost your mood and promote self–care. 

Talk to a loved one or access peer support 

Opening up about your feelings to a loved one will remind you that you do not have to go through these experiences alone. Talking may help clear your mind and your loved one will want to help you seek support. 

Accessing peer support will show that you’re not the only mother experiencing issues with your mental health. You will be able to talk to other mums who are facing similar challenges, which will be cathartic in realising you’re not alone. 

financial support and leave options for mothers

Being a mom can be very expensive with studies suggesting that raising a child can cost you up to £160,000. Fortunately, there are benefits that you can access as a father such as the Best Start Grant and the Scottish Child Payment.

For more information, our Mental Health and Money Advice service can provide information about other benefits that you can apply for.

Do I get any support from my employer as a new mum? 

Under Scottish law, you are entitled to up to 52 weeks of maternity leave from your employer.  

You can also consider Shared Parental Leave if you would like to work earlier or if your partner would prefer to take more leave. You can read more about this on the UK Government website. 

Regardless, consider what your best leave option is financially, physically and emotionally for you and your partner. You might want to consider discussing this with a financial planner or professional. 

Do I still get support when I adopt a child? 

The short answer is yes. You will be eligible for Statutory Adoption Pay and Leave. Unlike paternity leave, you could be eligible for up to 52 weeks of adoption leave depending on certain criteria. You can read more about how many days and how much you are eligible for here. 

How much do I get from Maternity/Adoption leave?

Although the value is standardised around the UK, it will also depend on many factors such as your current salary and any other benefits your employer is offering.  

Although mainly used for employers, one way you can check how much you should be getting is by using the Maternity, Adoption and paternity calculator for employers. As an employee, you can check whether you are getting the legally required pay from your employer. 

Our Advice and Support Service is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (closed for lunch between 12.30pm and 1.30pm), where advisers can signpost you to local support that most fits your needs, including our Change Mental Health services. We offer initial advice on money worries and help to deal with emergencies.

Contact 0808 8010 515, email us at advice@changemh.org or fill out the enquiry form on the Advice and Support Service page.

Who else can I contact?

• Action on Postpartum Psychosis (APP) support for mums and family members affected by postpartum psychosis.  
• Maternal Mental Health Alliance is a British charity dedicated to helping women through mental health problems.  
• Tommy’s is a pregnancy charity that can help you with a variety of pregnancy-related issues such as miscarriage.  
• Scottish Perinatal Network has information and guidance on perinatal and postnatal mental health, with a list of support that is available to you in Scotland.  
• Maternal Mental Health Scotland has a list of organisations for mums, partners and families to contact if you need support. 
• NCT Scotland provides parenting support groups and courses across Scotland 
• Happy Lives offers range of resource for stepparents and a WhatsApp support service.