Brochure throws light on post natal depression

News release
February 22, 2007

Brochure throws light on post natal depression

It’s something that’s rarely talked about. And yet talking about it is among the best ways to help manage the sometimes serious and debilitating condition.

It’s called Post Natal Depression (PND) and in a nation where virtually every new mother expects she will be a super-mum, it can be devastating for some.

One in 10 new mothers in New Zealand is likely to experience PND. A further eight out of 10 suffer from some sort of milder post natal blues.

Now New Zealand’s leading maternity wear company EGG is partnering with the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand to tackle PND.

To help get information on Post Natal Depression out to mothers, EGG has produced a brochure providing information and contact details. It is being distributed through EGG stores nationwide. The brochure is also available from the Mental Health Foundation resource centre and on its website at www.mentalhealth.org.nz

The Mental Health Foundation is New Zealand’s leading mental health promotion charity and aims to ‘make mental health everybody’s business’. The foundation provides an information service and has external websites. EGG has made a commitment to help spread the word.

“It is a project we have spent months on perfecting and one that is not only consistent with our business objectives but also near and dear to our hearts,” says EGG director Colyn Devereux-Kay.

“EGG understands that while having a baby is often a joyful occasion it can also be one of the most stressful times in a woman’s life.

“It is important for women to know that it is completely normal to feel anxious and tired. For most mothers the ‘baby blues’ soon give way to the pleasure of caring for their treasured one.

“However, women with more severe forms of PND can experience a prolonged lowness of mood, reduced interest in activities, tiredness and disturbances of sleep and appetite.”

Ms Devereux-Kay says New Zealanders can help combat PND by showing understanding, demonstrating support, by talking and not withdrawing from someone experiencing it. We should also encourage people to seek help for PND.

“Talking about PND, bringing it out from the dark recesses it thrives in and throwing light on it is the best way we can help. And that is why we have become involved in funding the new brochure.”

What distinguishes Post Natal Depression from the ‘baby blues’ is that it stays around and gets more severe. Mothers often don’t understand why they are feeling this way and don’t know who they can turn to for help.

Judi Clements, CEO of the Mental Health Foundation says: “We are delighted to be working with EGG on this important initiative to reach women with the message that they are not alone.

“It’s important for women to recognize the symptoms of PND, and actively seek help. This help is readily available and PND is treatable.”

• New Post Natal Depression Brochures are available from EGG stores nationwide.
• For further information contact the Mental Health Foundation 09 300 7010 or visit its website www.mentalhealth.org.nz

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