Event helps new mothers

Rockingham mothers now have access to a full range of services to assist with new motherhood issues including postnatal depression, with Port Kennedy-based Rat Rats Playgroup president Alex Eccleshall leading the way.

Last month the playgroup held a postnatal depression event at its Port Kennedy Family Centre premises to coincide with postnatal depression week and to raise awareness of mental health, showcasing services new mothers could access.

Department of Health clinical nurse specialist Paula Medley said child health nurses had organised the event, which attracted more than 150 people.

“It has been wonderful to see that already I have lots of appointments booked with women who have been on the waitlist to receive help for some time,” she said.

The event provided a platform for child health nurses to offer health advice.

“I’m really proud of the commitment of child health nurses coming together to help the local community,” Ms Medley said.

Rockingham Act Belong Commit spokeswoman Jessica Diggins said it was important to stay mentally and physically healthy.

She encouraged mothers to do something positive for themselves every day.

Mental health organisation Beyond Blue statistics revealed up to one in 10 women would experience PND in pregnancy and these figures increased to one in seven in the year following the baby’s birth.

If you or anyone you know needs help, contact Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.