Mental Health
We believe good mental health, for both children and adults, is essential for family relationships to thrive. Apart from our Counselling Service we commission Mindful Mums to deliver sessions in our Children’s Centres. Look out for information on celebration days and events around mental health.
To find out what you can access visit our LIVE CALENDAR for our latest programme of events. Our aim is to improve the lives of local children and families.
We also have a wellbeing hub on our site with lots or resources, videos and information on how you can improve your wellbeing. You can visit it here.
Infant Mental Health
The first 1001 days for infant mental health is crucial because it lays the foundation for a child’s overall well-being and development. Here are several reasons why infant mental health is important:
Brain Development: The early years of life are a critical period for brain development. A baby’s experiences and interactions shape the wiring of their brain, influencing cognitive, emotional, and social development. Positive early experiences support healthy brain architecture, while negative experiences can hinder optimal development.
Emotional and Social Development: Infants form attachments and learn emotional regulation through consistent and nurturing relationships with caregivers. Healthy emotional development in infancy sets the stage for forming secure relationships, empathy, and emotional resilience later in life.
Early Intervention: Identifying and addressing mental health concerns early in infancy can prevent long-term difficulties. Early intervention can help identify and address potential developmental delays, emotional disturbances, or relational challenges, ensuring that appropriate support is provided at a critical stage of development.
Parent-Child Relationship: Infant mental health emphasises the importance of the parent-child relationship. When caregivers are attuned, responsive, and provide a secure and nurturing environment, it supports the development of a secure attachment bond. This bond forms the basis for the child’s sense of security, self-esteem, and ability to form healthy relationships throughout their life.
Lifelong Impact: The mental health of infants sets the stage for future mental health outcomes. Early experiences shape the brain’s architecture, impacting cognitive abilities, emotional regulation, and resilience. Positive mental health in infancy can contribute to better mental health outcomes in adulthood.
- Prevention of Mental Health Disorders: Early intervention and support for infant mental health can reduce the risk of later mental health disorders. By addressing challenges or providing support during the critical early years, it is possible to mitigate the potential development of mental health problems later in life.
