New Post Natal Depression Brochure
A partnership between the Mental Health Foundation and EGG, a New Zealand company specialising in maternity wear has resulted in the development of a new brochure on Post Natal Depression (PND).
The brochure was developed last year in consultation with Ruth DeSouza, of the National Institute for Public Health and Mental Health Research at Auckland University of Technology.
The brochure is now being distributed from the resource centre at the Mental Health Foundation, is on its website and will also be available at all of EGG maternity's boutiques in New Zealand. In addition, the brochure is being included in information packs given to new mothers by Plunket.
The EGG philosophy is to provide expectant women with stylish and comfortable maternity wear that takes them all the way through their pregnancy - and even beyond. In 2004, EGG was rated seventh in the Deloittes Fast 50 which lists the fastest growing companies in New Zealand.
In this very appropriate partnership with the Mental Health Foundation, EGG has made a commitment to help provide quality information on Post Natal Depression.
"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."
Post natal depression is not often talked about. And yet talking about it is among the best ways to help manage the sometimes serious and debilitating condition.
One in 10 new mothers in New Zealand is likely to experience from PND. A further eight out of 10 suffer from some sort of milder post natal blues.
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, and from the Mental health Foundation's Resource Centre.
- For further information contact the Mental Health Foundation 09 300 7010
 | Postnatal Depression Booklet |
