PaNDAS - PND Awareness and Support
PaNDAS is a charity that is here to offer hope, empathy and signposting for every parent or carer who may be suffering with perinatal mental illness – from conception through to birth and beyond.
Our aim is to make sure that no individual, family or carer feels as if they are alone. We have a variety of support services available to ensure that help is delivered in a way to suit you. No one suffering any form of mental illness should feel they are on their own.
What is PND?
Postnatal depression (PND) is a type of depression that many parents experience after having a baby. This can affect any parent regardless of a previous mental health condition. Postnatal depression is a type of depression that is linked directly to giving birth to a baby. It’s a common problem, affecting more than 1 in every 10 women within a year of giving birth. It can also affect fathers and partners.
A lot of our support is given through our trained, empathetic and inspirational volunteers who balance their own lives alongside supporting other parents through PANDAS
How we can support you?
Sometimes it might feel like no one understands what you are going through. We have support available, all via fully trained volunteers. All of our services are FREE.
Helpline, available every day from 11am to 10pm. Call 0808 1961776 (Free from uk mobiles & landlines). If you are struggling with helplessness, low mood, anxiety or any concerns around your health during or beyond your pregnancy, call us. You can also call if you are concerned about someone you know.
Text message support Available 24/7 at any time of the day or night. Text PANDAS 85258 to be connected with a trained volunteer. This service is free & anonymous, and in partnership with Mental Health Innovations.
Email support, available every day [javascript protected email address] Contact us today if you’d like information regarding perinatal mental illness or are looking for support for yourself or your partner, friend or colleague. We will reply within 72 hours.
Support Groups Offering a safe space for parents and their babies, to discuss, listen and exchange experiences with people that understand what you are going through. www.pandasfoundation.org.uk/support-groups
Information Guidance on self-care, speaking to your GP, and a list of other organisations who can help. www.pandasfoundation.org.uk/information
Please see downloads for more information
