A MUM has successfully helped a campaign to improve the diagnosis and treatment of maternal mental health problems.

Libby Binks, from Norton, had post-natal depression and anxiety after the birth of her daughter Chloe in December 2014.

As a result of her experiences, Libby backed the National Childhood Trust’s Hidden Half campaign, with the support of Thirsk and Malton MP Kevin Hollinrake, which called for a 10-minute dedicated appointment for all new mums.

A universal thorough six to eight-week post-natal check for new mothers is to form part of an updated contract for GPs.

Mr Hollinrake took up the issue after Libby explained that during her check-up consideration was not given to her well-being, despite the fact that she was clearly in distress and had post-natal depression.

He said: “It’s only natural that attention is focused on a new baby to ensure that it is healthy.

“However, it’s also important to make sure that the mother is well both physically and mentally and very often there isn’t time to do this properly. I am pleased that the new GP contracts will include a thorough check-up for mothers too.”

At the moment the maternal six-week check is currently not included in the GP contract while baby checks are.

Under the new contracts, the six-week post-natal check will be funded and added to the GP contract for 2020- 2021 so that every new mother gets a dedicated appointment, including a discussion about her mental health.

Libby said: “I want to thank Mr Hollinrake for his unwavering support of me and the wider campaign.

“At several points I wondered if I was doing the right thing for my family by speaking out about my story, but now I strongly believe that it was the right thing to do.

“I am proud of the little I did to help this campaign and am so grateful for the part he played in getting this through.

“I cannot thank him enough and I am so pleased that other mums and families will not have to suffer as I did through a lack of support.”