This week is Children’s Mental Health Week.
The Duchess of Cambridge- Kate Middleton has been looking at the importance of early childhood and how it shapes the rest of a child’s life and their societal outcomes.
5 big insights to come from her research were:
- People overwhelmingly believe that a child’s future is not pre-determined at birth and more that nurture is essential to lifelong outcomes. Only 1 in 4 recognise that the first five years are important.
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The reality of life makes it hard for parents to prioritise their well-being, with only 10% of parents admitting to taking time to looks after their own wellbeing in preparation for the arrival of their baby.
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Feeling judged by others can make a bad situation worse. 70% of parents feel judged by other parents and 50% feel this impacts on their mental health.
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Parental loneliness is dramatically increasing with people less willing to seek help for how they are feeling. Since he pandemic began parental loneliness has increased from 38% to 63% with many being cut off from their friends and family.
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During the pandemic, support from local communities has substantially increased. 40% of parents feel community support has grown.
The findings highlight that there is a need for more support and advice for parents to ensure they have good mental health and wellbeing as they raise young children.
