Our working lives are part of a complex formula involving financial necessity, personal ambition, children’s needs and logistical practicality. The damaging ideal that “parents shouldn’t think of themselves” means that we often leave what we’re able to tolerate out of the equation. This blog explores why and how companies are taking notice of the family ecosystem and what working parents can do to consider their own work/life integration.

I have been working in perinatal mental health for over 20 years, but this had largely focused on mothers. It is only relatively recently that we started thinking about fathers too. What became clear, through my research and working with new parents who have experienced poor perinatal mental health, is that there are three situations when a father needs more information and support: to enable him to support his partner, should she become unwell; to support his own mental health; and to provide support for fathers who witness a traumatic birth involving their partner.

Neurodivergent parents - those who are autistic, have ADHD or other neurodivergent traits - experience not only the typical demands of pregnancy and new parenthood, but often additional differences. This blog by Dr. Siobhan Higgins of The Neurodiversity Practice, explores these challenges and the adjustments that may be needed at work to support neurodivergent parents.

Work can play a crucial role in supporting the mental health of new and expecting parents. In this blog, Leanne provides practical first steps for every workplace. By fostering psychological safety through open conversations, tailored support, and thoughtful policies, employers can make a significant difference in helping parents navigate the challenges of pregnancy, the postnatal period, and returning to work.