"I am feeling like myself again after my depression"

After giving birth to my first child, I started going through postnatal depression. I was referred to the perinatal mental health team, who were immensely supportive and checked on my progress regularly.

I was given antidepressants from my GP which helped, but what I really needed was someone to talk to on a regular basis about my condition and discuss ways I can get back to being myself again after my delivery.

My occupational therapist Emma helped me with getting a routine together and prioritising tasks that helped improve my mental wellbeing, such as doing hobbies and spending time with family and friends.

I learned not to be hard on myself and not to feel guilty about scheduling me-time. I also was enrolled in a weekly class for a few months where I spent time interacting with other new mums and learning how to manage my stress and take action. We went on walks and did some arts and crafts together as well as doing sensory play with our little ones. Being out and about helped improve my confidence again and prepared me for getting back into the workplace after maternity leave.

Thanks to the perinatal team, I feel better equipped to deal with and manage stress and I am feeling like myself again after my depression. I would also like to thank my perinatal nurse Emma and everyone else in the wonderful team for checking up on me and being there when I needed someone to talk to.