A Better Start Southend is supporting Infant Mental Health Week from the 13th to the 19th June.

This year, Infant Mental Health Week – hosted by the Parent Infant Foundation - will be focussing on understanding childhood trauma, and how to reduce the stress associated with it. When times get tough, it can be difficult to know how to protect our little ones from what’s happening. Sometimes, big events in our lives such as domestic violence can have an impact on our children, as well as on the adults involved. But the effects felt from these significant life events don’t have to be forever.

How can I support my child through tough times in the household?

Firstly, it is important to take good care of yourself as well as your child through traumatic times. The NHS’ guide to self-care for your mental health can help you in looking after your mental wellbeing, and reaching out to family or friends can also help.

A child looks to their parents for safety and reassurance. By creating a secure, loving bond with your child, and fostering a sense of security, any long-term impact on your little one’s mental health can be limited. Sharing special time with your child daily is key to building this bond; playtime, involving them in day-to-day tasks such as cooking, chatter, singing, reading a book and sharing regular affection are all fantastic ways to do this. Take a look at some resources below which may also help:

• Download Our Chat, Sing, Play And Read As We Grow Leaflets
• Big Little Moments
• Hungry Little Minds

It may also help to access specialist support in your community too. Getting help from professional services can help to strengthen the relationship with your baby and reduce the impact of the tough times on their mental health.

Support available within Southend: