Maternal Mental Health Week - Steph's story

Posted 29th April 2018

Steph has used support from Fitmums & Friends to help manage the debilitating effects of post natal depression and here she tells her story...

I have worked in mental health for 10 years as a clinician, always been the person whom provides others with therapy and advice on recovery from poor mental health. However following the birth of my now 5 year old, I experienced post natal depression feeling low in mood, anxious and constant negative thoughts about myself. I did not feel I could reach out to health services for support in the fear of been judged or people saying ‘you should know what to do’. Instead my depression spiralled leaving me with low confidence, feeling lost in my identity, scared to speak out and alone. I never overcame these feeling, however after the birth of my now 3 year old, it spiralled again.

Steph - Hedon Fitmums & Friends

With the support of my husband I was able to understand the triggers to my poor mental wellbeing - i was unable to manage with change in my roles, identity and changes to my routine. I came across Fitmums and Friends on the internet and considered how exercise previously was important to me but i was too afraid to exercise alone after my children. Therefore after a couple of months i stepped through the door of Hedon Fitmums and Friends. I have never looked back - it provided me with confidence, social contact, new roles and allowed me to have some ‘me’ time. I did not have to be a mental health clinician nor a mummy, i was Stephanie.

I have met some awesome people and learnt that ‘it's ok to not be ok’, even went on to run a half marathon and become a run leader. With Fitmums and Friends and mindfulness, i have been able to work on the many factors that trigger my poor mental health.  I am now help lead a team of Mental Health Champion's for Fitmums & Friends - this is so important to me, to support others to engage in meaningful activity and understand how one small step can change your well-being.

If you think being more active might help you experience improved mental health and well-being then please come along to any Fitmums & Friends session.  Check out your nearest group here  If it feels too daunting to attend alone then why not use our helping hand scheme called In the Pink.  We know the hardest step can be walking through the door so let us help you get there.

the National Lottery - Sport England Fundraising Regulator