Developed by Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust, the app is launching during Infant Mental Health Awareness Week to help parents find support more easily after having a baby.
Around one in five women experience mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression during pregnancy or the first year postpartum.
The app aims to make it easier for families to access help.
Dr Lisa Milne, clinical lead of the trust’s Specialist Mother and Baby Mental Health Service (SMABS), said: “Infant Mental Health Awareness Week is an important opportunity to highlight how early relationships shape a child’s emotional development.
“When parents are struggling with their mental health, it can affect how they connect with their baby.
“Our service is here to support families during this time and help them build those important early bonds.”
A new NHS mobile app is being launched (Image: Helena Fitzsimmons)
The new app explains what support is available through the trust’s Specialist Mother and Baby Service (SMABS), how to access it, and what families can expect.
It also includes personal stories from mothers who have used the service.
One mother who received support said: “When I was struggling after my baby was born, I felt ashamed and worried about telling anyone how bad things had become.
“I thought I would be judged as a parent.
“The team listened without judgement and helped me understand what I was going through.
“Slowly, I began to feel more like myself again and I was able to enjoy being with my baby.”
The SMABS team works with families in Bradford, Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven, supporting those with moderate to severe mental health difficulties during pregnancy and up to one year post-birth.
This year’s Infant Mental Health Awareness Week focuses on the theme of “Attunement” and the importance of emotional connections between babies and parents.
This emotional tuning helps babies feel safe, understood and loved, which is vital for their emotional growth and ability to regulate feelings.
The trust highlights that bonding can be difficult for parents facing trauma or health struggles.
Research suggests that more than one in ten babies in the UK are living with high levels of distress, confusion or fear.
Parents who are concerned about their mental health during pregnancy or after birth are encouraged to speak to a midwife, health visitor, GP or mental health professional.
The app is available at www.smabs.bdct.nhs.uk and can also be accessed by scanning a QR code on a mobile device.