Mum, are you ok? Help fundraise for mother's with postnatal depression.

Hi my name is Katie and I suffered from Post Natal Depression and anxiety, I am raising funds for for Mothers Helpers Charity who provide support for Mothers suffering from post natal, perinatal depression and anxiety.

Post-natal depression is not discussed openly. Mothers tend to hide their symptoms, ashamed of how they are feeling. There is often a belief amongst mothers that a “good mother” is seen to be coping well. So in addition a new mother’s radical adjustment to what can be a very isolating role, a mother experiencing post-natal depression is likely to also feel especially isolated, guilty and ashamed

Presently, Maternal Mental Health will only get involved with a mother if she has moderate-severe post-natal depression. And even then, MMH resources are limited – sometimes they are so overwhelmed they literally close until they are able to catch up on the demand

There is currently no one formally responsible for addressing mothers who have mild-moderate post-natal depression. It is expected that midwives or plunket nurses will pick up on it and refer to GP’s or that GP’s will pick up on it. However, it is completely at the discretion of the midwife and the plunket nurse whether or not she assessing for post-natal depression.

There is no one actively involved in addressing those at-risk of PND in order to prevent it or reduce the severity of the condition.

Funds from the donations go to help mother's in need and hire two more staff members they desperately need.