The peak onset of psychological disorders is during adolescence and early adulthood. Simultaneously, many young people start a family during this time; pregnancy and parenting are major risk factors within this already vulnerable age group, both for parents’ mental health, and their children’s emotional and developmental outcomes.

COVID-19 has compounded the situation by disrupting both informal and professional support networks for these young people. Young families find themselves isolated from their extended family and support networks who might otherwise be able to offer both practical help, but also model sensitive early interactions with infants. This isolation during such an intense and demanding period is likely to negatively impact on parents’ mental health.

The aim of this project is to explore the experiences of young parents’ during the pandemic and identify their specific needs regarding parenting and mental health. This will help us understand how they and their children can be better supported by services post-pandemic.