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Sport Relief is calling on mums and dads affected by maternal mental health problems, to share their stories.
It is hoped that the conversation, which will take place on the @SportRelief Twitter feed(opens in new window) on Wednesday 24th February, will help the nation gain a unique insight into the issue.
Anyone affected by maternal mental health problems, who would like more information on support and services can also visit the Maternal Mental Health Alliance(opens in new window).
More than 1 in 10 women in the UK develop a mental illness during pregnancy or within the first year of having a baby. However the issue is still not talked about openly. Many women feel too embarrassed to share their true feelings, with 7 in 10 women affected hiding or downplaying their symptoms.
If untreated, these mental illnesses can have a devastating impact on the women and their families. However, with the right support women and men do get better, with 3 out of 4 mums no longer depressed by their child’s first birthday.
By providing a platform to speak about maternal mental health, using the hashtag #MumTalk, Sport Relief hopes to reduce the stigma associated with the issue, highlight the help that is available and encourage more people affected to seek the support they need.
Cash raised through Sport Relief has been helping to fund maternal mental health projects in the UK since 2010. These projects include the Bluebell Care Trust in Bristol, and the Maternal Mental Health Alliance’s ‘Everyone’s Business’ campaign, which raises awareness of maternal mental health issues and helps women and families across the UK to access specialist support.
“Being a parent is the most difficult thing any of us ever does and when we go through difficult times we need other people,” Dr Alain Gregoire, Perinatal Psychiatrist and Chair of the Maternal Mental Health Alliance, said. “But if we are not mentally well, we feel alone.
“Knowing you are not alone, that other people care and want to help and knowing that if you speak out about how you are feeling you will get help are crucial steps to recovery. Through this day of activity, Sport Relief is giving every one of us the opportunity to help mums and dads who are suffering from mental health problems at this critical time in their lives.”
The day is being supported by the Maternal Mental Health Alliance, Bluebell Care Trust, the Royal College of General Practitioners and MIND who are following the stories @SportRelief and sharing their own views and insights using the hashtag #MumTalk.
Sport Relief is back from Friday 18th to Sunday 20th March and there are more ways than ever for you to take part, change lives and feel proud. The money raised will transform people's lives in the UK and across the world's poorest communities, including people affected by maternal mental health issues.
