Is the impact of AND or PND on the entire family?
There’s a huge impact to mum and her partner, but also, importantly, depression impacts her baby, which is why it’s important that she gets help as quickly as possible.
How is it best for people to contact Mothers Helpers?
The best way for people to find us is mothershelpers.co.nz – there is a family landing page so whether it’s the mum or her friend or family member looking for information they can find us and ways to contact us, including on 0800 002717 .
Mothers Helpers believes in a holistic approach to health incorporating the physical, psychological, social, mental, cultural and spiritual aspects of a person.
Every woman who gives birth is vulnerable, although some things increase the chances of developing postnatal depression.
Risk factors before pregnancy and birth:
- Past history of depression or other mental health problem.
- Family history of postpartum depression.
- Not having much social support or problems with partner.
- Birth complications, such as caesarean delivery.
- Baby has health problems or is ill.
- A fussy baby who has problems feeding, has reflux or colic.
Look for these symptoms during pregnancy or following birth to identify AND or PND:
- Feeling empty, sad, alone, tearful or depressed.
- Losing interest and attention.
- Feeling irritable or angry at any given time, or feeling extremely moody.
- Having a hard time concentrating, not sleeping.
- Feeling no bond with baby.
- Feeling overwhelmed.
- Having thoughts of harming yourself or baby.
- Experiencing a lack of appetite.
- Feeling hopeless and guilty.
- Feeling like you’re in a fog or it is difficult to think clearly.
- Worrying constantly, and fear.
- Experiencing anxiety or panic attacks.
Ask for help if you think you might be experiencing antenatal or post-natal depression by contacting:
- Your local GP
- Mothers Helpers
Providing support to mothers experiencing ante-natal and postnatal anxiety and depression. Also offer PND Recovery courses and follow-up counselling in 12 areas across the North Island as well as online. These are delivered by qualified counsellors, social workers, life coaches or mental health nurses.
Phone: 0800 002 717 or 022 093 1822
Email: info@mothershelpers.co.nz - 1737, Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor
- Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
- Depression Helpline 0800 111 757
- Healthline: 0800 611 116 (available 24 hours, 7 days a week and free to callers throughout New Zealand, including from a mobile phone).
- Plunketline
PlunketLine is a toll-free parent helpline and advice service available to all families, whānau and caregivers 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Call 0800 933 922 for parenting help. Calls are free from cell phones. - Samaritans - 0800 726 666
- Anxiety New Zealand - 0800 ANXIETY (0800 269 4389)
- If it is an emergency or you, or someone you know, is at risk call 111.
Visit the Mothers Helpers website to learn more about the fantastic work they do and join their supportive Facebook community.
Find out more about Treasure at www.treasures.co.nz/.
