Group for moms spreading the message of support
The mothers group has gotten support from local health professionals, who say that something like this is needed.
DURBAN North resident Alex Wallis wants new mothers to know that it is fine if they are experiencing postnatal depression (PND). Since establishing a support group in September 2016 for mothers who are struggling with their newborns, she and other women from the area who have gone through PND, hold weekly meetings at La Lucia Library. After getting a permanent place for regular sessions, Wallis is now focusing on spreading the word to others about their meetings.
While few women attend the meetings, Wallis said their most successful method at reaching out and being supportive has been the WhatsApp group where mothers are more likely to reach out if it is not known who they are. Wallis said, “There is no strict structure to our meetings. We just have a friendly chat, a cup of tea, a piece of cake and we just talk about whatever anybody wants to talk about. And what get’s said in the room stays in the room, so you are free to say anything you need to say. The other moms understand – they’ve been through it too.” The group has also expanded to include discussing perinatal distress with pregnant women.
“The struggles of motherhood don’t end when you don’t have a baby anymore. Motherhood always has its challenges, especially for mothers who have had postnatal depression or they’ve had mental illness before. It can come back. Our group is open to any mom who needs a bit of extra support and is battling emotionally. Any mum is welcome,” Wallis said.
When asked about the challenges involved in setting up the group, Wallis said that it’s been very hard because there’s a stigma around postnatal depression. “New mothers don’t want to admit that they’re not enjoying having a baby,” she said.
Wallis has also talked to various health professionals such as local psychologists, gynecologists and antenatal-class teachers about her group and letting women know that there is a space for them to talk to others going through the same things. “Professionals have responded very positively. Everyone is happy that we’re doing it because there is a definite need for it. A lot of psychologists and baby clinics have tried to set something like this up but the charges of doing it and the cost to them in time means they can’t do it for free like us. I’ve had a couple of psychologists say they’ll come and do talks for free.”
For more information about the group contact Alex on 083 788 0689.
