Parents today face more challenges than ever. Between juggling work, family duties, and personal wellbeing, the transition into parenthood can trigger anxiety, depression, and other emotional difficulties. The University of Malta, in partnership with Positive Parenting Malta, has launched a comprehensive support program aimed at mitigating these challenges during the crucial perinatal period—pregnancy and the first year after birth.
What the New Service Covers
The initiative is a structured, evidence‑based program that blends education, therapy, and community support. Its key components include:
- Screening and Early Detection – Regular assessments to identify signs of perinatal depression, anxiety, or trauma.
- Individual and Couples Therapy – Cognitive‑behavioural techniques tailored to new fathers and mothers, with a special focus on male involvement.
- Parenting Workshops – Sessions on infant care, attachment theory, and healthy communication.
- Peer Support Groups – Safe spaces where parents share experiences and coping strategies.
- Resource Hub – Evidence‑based articles, videos, and toolkits available online.
These services are offered by trained professionals from Positive Parenting Malta and guided by research performed at the University’s Department of Child and Family Studies.
Why the Service Matters for New Parents
Studies consistently show that up to 15% of mothers and about 10% of fathers experience significant mental‑health symptoms during the first year postpartum. Untreated symptoms can lead to:
- Strain in marital or partnership relationships.
- Chronic health issues for the parent.
- Delayed child development and attachment difficulties.
By offering timely intervention, the University of Malta’s program addresses these risks head‑on, promoting healthier families and more resilient communities across Malta.
Tailored Support for Fathers
Historically, many support schemes have overlooked fathers, leading to under‑diagnosis and inadequate care. The new service explicitly includes:
- Dedicated counseling sessions focusing on male experiences.
- Workshops that address father‑specific concerns such as work‑life balance and societal expectations.
- Peer mentorship from experienced dads who have navigated similar challenges.
This holistic approach helps normalize the conversation around fatherhood’s emotional demands.
Academic Rigor Driving the Programme
Prof. Angela Abela, who led pivotal research on perinatal mental health at the University of Malta, highlighted how the course curriculum was informed by both global best practices and local demographic trends. She notes that the programme’s curriculum has been piloted in small cohorts, showing a 40% reduction in assessed symptoms after six sessions.
Continued Professional Development
All therapists involved with the service undergo ongoing training, ensuring they stay current with therapeutic innovations such as trauma‑informed care and attachment‑based interventions. This commitment to professional development guarantees that families receive cutting‑edge support.
How Families Can Access the Service
Enrollment is open to all parents in Malta and to remote families via online sessions, ensuring wide geographic coverage. The steps to join are straightforward:
- Visit the official service page and fill out the initial enrolment form.
- Schedule a baseline assessment session with a certified therapist.
- Participate in the recommended number of sessions and workshops based on personal needs.
- Engage with the peer support network, either in person or virtually.
- Complete the follow‑up assessment to track progress.
All sessions are fee‑waived for families facing financial hardship, in line with the Government’s commitment to universal mental health.
Community Impact and Broader Health Goals
The University’s collaboration with Positive Parenting Malta aligns with the Malta Government’s broader strategy to destigmatise mental health. Minister for Social Policy and Children’s Rights, Hon. Michael Falzon, framed the programme as part of a national system that views perinatal mental health as a priority, matching early screening with accessible care.
Supporting new parents not only helps individual families but also strengthens the social fabric by:
- Reducing future healthcare costs related to untreated mental‑health conditions.
- Increasing workforce participation by improving parental wellbeing.
- Fostering a culture of openness around mental health conversations.
Looking Ahead: Scalable Models for the Future
While the current pilot focuses on the first year, the University of Malta is already planning a phased extension into the second and third years of parenthood. This expansion would address long‑term challenges such as parenting fatigue, developmental delays, and sustained relationship health.
Practical Advice for Expectant Parents
Regardless of whether you’re yet to enroll, there are actionable steps you can take now to prepare for a healthier transition into parenthood:
- Book a pre‑natal consult with a mental‑health provider or your obstetrician to discuss your wellbeing.
- Use a mood‑tracking app to record feelings regularly – early detection is key.
- Attend a prenatal class focused on infant care and coping skills.
- Reach out to a local parent support group or an online community for peer insights.
- Set realistic boundaries with work commitments, ensuring time for rest and bonding.
Get Involved – Whether You’re a Parent, Professional, or Advocate
The success of the University of Malta’s perinatal support service hinges on community engagement. Here’s how everyone can contribute:
- Parents: Share your experience on social media using #UMSupportParenting to raise awareness.
- Healthcare Providers: Refer your patients to the program or collaborate on joint workshops.
- Educators: Integrate mental‑health awareness modules into parenting courses.
- Community Leaders: Advocate for continued funding and expand outreach to underserved areas.
Connect with Us for More Information
Have questions about the service? Sign up for a free consultation or contact us directly:
Contact the University of Malta
Take the Next Step
Parents, it’s time to access a program specifically designed for your journey. Whether you’re pregnant, in your first year of parenthood, or looking for ongoing support, the University of Malta’s partnership with Positive Parenting Malta offers reliable, science‑backed resources.
Submit your application today – secure a place in the programme and start a healthier trajectory for you and your family.
Schedule a free consultation to learn more about how the service can support your specific needs.
Have questions? Write to us! – our team is ready to help you navigate the available options.
Share your experiences in the comments below – your story can inspire and inform others on the same path.
