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On 23^rd September my second book, ‘Another Twinkle in the Eye – contemplating another pregnancy after perinatal mental illness’ will be officially launched at a conference and exhibition at Salford University. Over the next few weeks it will be my great pleasure to introduce the speakers on the day via my blog.

Often we think of perinatal (antenatal and postnatal) as referring just to a woman, yet the decision if to have another baby has to involve a man! Partners are needed to create a baby; be there ideally through pregnancy; be present at the birth (should they wish) and then support both mother and baby subsequently. When pregnancy and early parenthood goes healthily there are many factors to be considered at a later date about having another baby. What if either, or both parents, are mentally unwell or already have mental health issues before conceiving a child? Around 20% of fathers are reported to have depression in the postnatal period.  Can you imagine how much harder it may be to then consciously make the decision to have another baby? All of these aspects, and more, are covered within my new book.

If follows that any conference covering perinatal issues should include partners. It gives me great pleasure to announce that Dads Matter UK  will be speaking at the conference. Mark Williams and Chris Bingley have both been affected by perinatal mental illness in different ways. For a number of years they have individually worked hard to make early parenthood happier for others. Now as a dynamic duo, their message is growing ever stronger. In their recent launch they were featured in many media presentations, e.g. BBC Breakfast, This Morning, and even ‘broke into’ the USA!

On their new website they explain that:

‘Their aim is to raise awareness amongst dads and to encourage open discussion and disclosure of anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress during the 1001 Critical Days from Conception to Age 2. This is a crucial time when parental behaviours and attitudes (Mental Health) impact upon the development of the child. Chris and Mark are passionately committed to the same cause, but from different view-points and for different reasons, and they aim to challenge and change the stigma associated with mental health, specifically Postnatal Depression (PND) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).’

I know that their presentation will be passionate and inspiring – yet most importantly for delegates to leave with the desire to always be aware of ‘Dad’ in their care and involvement with young families.

When will you book your place?

• Details of the event can be found here. Use code PERINATAL25 for a 25% discount. All delegates will receive a copy of the book on the day.
• There are a limited number of stands left to have a stand at the exhibition on the day – if you are interested please contact Stuart stuart@onecpd.co.uk

Watch this space as I announce other great speakers and book reviews!

Thank you all for your support

Elaine 🙂