Mutual support group for postnatal low mood/anxiety

[autumn2013]

Hi,

I'm just putting this thread on to ask if there are any mutual support groups in the Exeter area for parents with postnatal low mood/depression/anxiety?

If there isn't, I'd like to hear from you if you feel that a regular (and very relaxed and informal) meet-up would be something you'd benefit from. I'm finding that there's little or no peer support groups out there and if, like me, you would like to consider taking part in such a group, please get in contact. Feel free to PM me if you prefer.

Best wishes

Autumn

I think that's a great idea, Autumn. Some good local links that you might want to scope out are The Bridge Project and Rethink Mental Illness' "Devon Community Opportunities" branch. Cakeadoodledoo near the Cathedral recently ran a "Depressed Cake Shop" too, so might be worth a chat with them.

Thank you for the top tips. Im now in dialogue with Rethink Devon re: the possibility of setting up a support group. Have yet to meet with them but I'm making notes about the kind of things that need to be considered before going ahead.

Does anyone have any suggestions/ideas about the kind of things that they (or someone they know) would be interested in doing if it gets off the ground? By this I mean, would people prefer a casual sit-down and chat indoors or would the occasional activity (trips to the park etc) be of interest as well? I realise that these kind of points would be discussed within the group anyway but I'm interested to know what people would be interested in.

The latest stats I've seen claim that between 9% and 16% of new mothers will experience some degree of postnatal illness. Thats a lot of mothers! I'm keen to try and create a safe environment for Exeter and East Devon mothers to get together, chat and hopefully help one another. Any suggestions or questions, please get in touch so that I can take these to the table when I meet with Rethink Devon.

Great work autumn. I think an informal chat & coffee is best to start off with, but getting some exercise with the buggy might be a good idea too. Had you thought about teaming up with a health visitor, or holding the events in a children's centre?

Or what about an evening meet? Might increase new mums' chances of getting some time on their own?