Closed petition: Add the subject of post-partum mental illness to the national curriculum

Closed on 20 September 2025

Outline post partum depression, and other mental illnesses that can happen before, during and after pregnancy/birth. We think this could happen either at the end of sex education talks or through mental health awareness talks.

We believe this could help reduce maternal suicide rates as suicide continues to be the leading cause of direct maternal death between 6 weeks and 12 months post partum. To help ensure all women can access the help they need and not feel ashamed. To raise awareness of this and to educate pupils on signs and symptoms, where to go for help, which services would help and lessen the burden and worry on new parents. We think this could improve the quality of life for families and keep new mums and babies as safe as possible.