We hope that the information inside each package will support parents by helping them have a better understanding of neonatal care, and recognise the importance of taking care of their own mental health. Parents given this new pack will be able to read information aimed to help them on their first few days on the neonatal unit.
One of the resources included ‘About neonatal care,’ is a booklet written to answer the questions parents might have when they first arrive. It explains to parents how neonatal care works, who they might see on the unit, what equipment does, the care their baby might get and how they can parent their baby on the unit. It also has helpful ideas for getting more support, and includes places to write down questions, thoughts and notes about how they might be feeling.
To support parents’ mental health the pack also includes Bliss’ new mental health information card that gives parents tips on how to look after their mental health whilst on the neonatal unit. It acknowledges the challenges parents might be facing and gives ideas from other parents such as ‘get fresh air and natural light’ that might help.
This info card signposts parents to more information and support from Bliss, including our new podcast- NICU, SCBU and you. In our first episode ‘Neonatal care and parents’ mental health’ we talk to parents about their experiences and challenges with looking after their mental health whilst their baby was in neonatal care, and also a health professional working to support parents.
You can view all the resources included in the pack and find further information on our online shop, where packs can be ordered whilst stocks last.