My own experiences include two Hyperemesis Gravidarum pregnancies 6 months apart, birth injuries, postnatal anxiety, PTSD and hormonal challenges leading to PMDD-related rage that left me feeling anything but normal. Throw in some identity loss, breastfeeding difficulties, sleep deprivation and learning how to mother - it was a lot! One day in my rage, I had an intrusive thought about my husband who I loved but wasn't getting along with at the time, and it was the catalyst for me acknowledging that I was not ok and that I had let things go too far, and I finally reached out for more intense and comprehensive support. Throughout these challenges, it highlighted the misunderstood, stigmatised and underserved sector of perinatal mental health and our very fragmented maternity system.

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Becoming a mother changed the trajectory of my personal and professional life and has fuelled my passion for advocating for mother support and the importance of recognising the unique but misunderstood challenges mothers experience. My experiences helped me become acutely aware of the pervasive invisibility, shame, and silence that surround maternal struggles.

 

In that small glimmer of hope I had, it ignited a spark of determination to conquer the darkness. The transformation has been gradual, costly and time consuming and met with many setbacks, yet, has been profound. Throughout this experience, I realised that my own story had the power to inspire and advocate for change. I wanted to be a voice, and raise other women’s voices in breaking the silence and stigma around perinatal mental health and raise awareness. I used the opportunity during my Psychology Honours year to explore perceptions of birth trauma and storytelling because there is power in sharing our stories. My experiences have shaped me into a fierce advocate, a compassionate listener and I hope, a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of motherhood and mental health. I found purpose beyond my own healing – to help others find theirs.