A Morning Tea for Perinatal Depression and Anxiety Awareness

Today the Inner West Mums hosted its first informational morning tea at the 3 Weeds Rozelle’s stunning new Garden Room.
This week marks Perinatal Depression and Anxiety Awareness Week, which aims to increase awareness of perinatal mental health. Approximately twenty Inner West Mums came to learn and talk about perinatal depression and anxiety.
The discussion panel included three professionals with extensive experience in supporting expecting and new parents: clinical psychologist Amber de Lucia who practises in Annandale, birth educator Amelia Parkinson of Wonder Birthing and jack-of-all-trades Ali Vildos, otherwise known as Aunty Ali. In addition to sharing their expertise, one of our panellists told of her own lived experience of postnatal depression and anxiety.

The conversation covered the signs and symptoms of perinatal depression and anxiety, the risk factors, diagnosis, treatment and so much more. It was a warm and engaging discussion, and a poignant one too, especially when several audience members opened up at the end about their own current and past experiences.

One attendee, Inner West Mum Kunjal, said of the event: ‘What a fantastic morning! The panel shared some helpful insights into what to look for and what help is available but most importantly, HOW to ask for help. The venue was beautiful and the food was delicious – just perfect for this breastfeeding mama!’
Inner West Mums founder, Anita Vitanova, was very pleased with the event. She said: ‘Perinatal mental illness affects so many mums and dads, but there is a stigma attached to it. The more we talk about it, the more we help others around us to feel comfortable about speaking up if they’re not coping. Our panellists offered some excellent thoughts and advice, and I’m so glad a number of the mums who attended were able to share their stories too.’

Many thanks again to Amber De Lucia, Amelia Parkinson and Ali Vildos, for their participation and all they do to support Inner West families experiencing perinatal depression or anxiety. Thank you to the 3 Weeds Rozelle for your fantastic venue and service and Upswing, who provided childcare for the event. And last but not least, thanks to our sponsors, Gowland Legal, Mirvac and Your Property Experts Inner West!
If you or your partner are struggling with parenthood, please do not be afraid to seek help. Your GP is a good place to start.

Cover image: Amelia Parkinson, Ali Vildos, Amber De Lucia

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