On Maternal Mental Health Awareness Day, the South East Health Unit is reminding people that help is available for new and expecting parents facing mental health struggles.
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. Symptoms like sadness, irritability, and anxiety can appear during pregnancy or up to a year after birth.
Michelle Yoksimovich, Healthy Families Program Manager, says postpartum depression affects one in five birthing parents. “Rates in our region are often higher than the provincial average,” she said.
To help, SEHU is offering a free online program called Steps to Wellness. It’s a nine-week cognitive behavioural therapy group for those experiencing PMAD symptoms.
Support is key, says SEHU. “People are not alone, they are not to blame, and they can get better.”
To register, call 613-966-5500, ext. 223 or email careline@hpeph.ca.
Use #maternalMHmatters to help spread awareness on May 7.
