Information for Parents

In an emergency

Samaritans

Samaritans provides emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, or struggling to cope.

Breathing Space

Breathing Space is a free, confidential phone and web based service for people in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety.

NHS 24

NHS 24 is Scotland’s national telehealth and telecare organisation. This special health board runs a telephone advice and triage service that covers the out-of-hours period.

Butterfly Baby Club resources

Please explore these resources to find a Knowledge Hub of information relating to early parenting, a Playroom full of tips on how to have fun with your wee one and how to design a fun-filled nursery for them, a Quiet Space to help you have some down-time together, and a Wellbeing Garden packed with resources that will help support your wellbeing and that of your little one.

Pregnancy related resources

NHS guide to fertility, pregnancy, labour and birth

Being pregnant is a big life event and it is natural to feel a lot of different emotions.

NHS guide to mental health in pregnancy

Being pregnant is a big life event and it is natural to feel a lot of different emotions.

Tommy’s – Pregnancy Hub

A midwife-led information hub including information on having a safe and healthy pregnancy, from conception to birth.

NHS Inform – A guide to pregnancy, labour and birth and early parenthood up to 8 weeks

Find out about perinatal and postnatal mental health, including how to cope while pregnant and with a small baby.

Postnatal related resources

Mind – Guide to Maternal Mental Health Problems

Explains postnatal depression and other perinatal mental health problems, including possible causes, treatments and support options, with information for friends and family.

NCT – How you might be feeling as a new parent

Having a baby is physically challenging but it can also be emotional. It’s so important to share how you’re feeling because you’re definitely not alone.

NHS – Info on Postnatal Depression

Postnatal depression is a type of depression that many parents experience after having a baby.

With the right support most people make a full recovery.

Mental Health Foundation – Postnatal Depression

Having a baby is a huge life event. It’s normal to experience a range of powerful emotions while you’re pregnant and after giving birth: excitement, joy, and anxiety. You may also feel depressed. With support and treatment, you can get better.

NHS – info on postpartum psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is a serious mental illness that should be treated as a medical emergency. It can get worse rapidly and the illness can risk the safety of the mother and baby.

See a GP immediately if you think you, or someone you know, may have developed symptoms of postpartum psychosis. You should request an urgent assessment on the same day.

Parent Club Wellbeing Resources

Parent Club – wellbeing and mental health

As parents we often worry about how things are affecting our children, but it’s just as important that we look after ourselves, too. That’s why we have lots of wellbeing tips for you as well as for your kids. There’s lots of support out there for you, so don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Resources specifically for dads

National Childbirth Trust (NCT)

It’s understandable that we focus on mums in the postnatal period but let’s not forget the dads and co-parents who also need support. Here’s what you need to know about postnatal depression in partners.

Dads Rock

We aim to improve outcomes for children by supporting families throughout Scotland. We want Dads to feel and be equal when it comes to raising children, so we provide learning opportunities, advice and support.

Fathers Network Scotland

Fathers Network Scotland is a dynamic, award-winning charity that exists to improve children’s lives and outcomes through the positive involvement of dads, father-figures & whole families.

Magazine and Podcast

Exciting developments coming soon

We are soon to be releasing our own magazine and podcast service. Stay tuned for more details.

Support Services Directory

Inspiring Scotland – Perinatal mental health services

This directory lists organisations across Scotland who currently offer perinatal and infant mental health support.