Improving responses to disclosure of infant-related intrusions of harm

Distressing and unwanted intrusive thoughts of harming one's child are common in new parents. Evidence suggests such intrusions are not related to harmful parenting. There is no standardised guidance on responding to disclosure of infant-related intrusions of harm in the NHS, and this risks inappropriate referrals and social service involvement. This article outlines a service improvement project aimed at improving health professionals’ responses to intrusion disclosure. Some 53 online staff surveys on infant-related intrusions of harm were administered across pre-intervention, post-intervention and 2-month follow-up. The intervention involved staff training and psychoeducational handouts regarding intrusions. Staff confidence and appropriate anticipated referrals for infant-related intrusions of harm increased post-intervention and at follow-up. Qualitative analyses indicated increased staff empathy for parents experiencing intrusions. Health professionals’ understanding of infant-related intrusions of harm appeared to improve post-intervention. It is concluded that standardised staff interventions may improve responses to infant-related intrusions of harm.