Supporting Mums: Maternal Mental Health & Postnatal Depression with Laura Kyrke Smith

Navigating Motherhood: Maternal Mental Health, Postnatal Depression, and the Power of Community

Motherhood is often shown as a joyful, picture-perfect time, but the reality is very different for many mums. In this episode of the Super Mumma Podcast, Laura Kyrke Smith MP joins me to talk openly about maternal mental health, the hidden struggles of new mothers, and how we can all support mums through the challenges of postnatal depression.

Sophie’s Story: The Silent Struggle of Postnatal Depression

Laura shares her personal journey as a mum and the heartbreaking story of her friend Sophie, who tragically took her own life after suffering with postnatal depression. Sophie’s experience highlights the isolation that many new mothers face, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her story is a reminder that mental health in motherhood is too often overlooked, and that breaking the stigma is crucial.

Why Community Support Matters for New Mums

One of the key themes of this episode is the role of community support for mothers. Laura talks about groups like PANDAS in Aylesbury, which offer safe spaces for mums to share their experiences and seek advice. These support networks are vital in helping mothers feel less alone and in providing practical and emotional guidance for those struggling with maternal mental health.

Integrating Mental Health into Maternity Care

Laura advocates for maternal mental health support to be embedded into routine maternity care. She explains why mental health should be given the same priority as physical health during pregnancy and postpartum, and how regular check-ins from healthcare professionals can make a real difference. No mum should feel isolated while navigating the early weeks and months of motherhood.

The Power of Conversation

This episode also highlights how talking openly about mental health in motherhood can change lives. Laura’s story demonstrates the importance of speaking up about struggles, and the Super Mumma Podcast provides a platform for these vital conversations. By sharing experiences, we can inspire other mums to seek help and support one another.

How MPs Can Improve Maternal Mental Health Support

Laura discusses her work in Parliament to improve services and awareness around maternal mental health. She emphasises the need for better funding for community initiatives, and how local MPs can help ensure every mother has access to the support she needs during pregnancy and postpartum.

A Call to Action: Every Mumma Matters

Laura’s story is a reminder that maternal mental health is a community issue. Whether you’re a policymaker, a friend, or a fellow mum, you can make a difference by checking in, listening, and supporting the mothers in your life. Together, we can create a world where no mum has to face the challenges of motherhood alone.

Final Thoughts: You Are a Super Mumma

This conversation with Laura Kyrke Smith is a heartfelt look at the unseen struggles of motherhood and the resilience of mums. By raising awareness, supporting one another, and breaking the stigma around postnatal depression, we can ensure every mum knows she is not alone.

If you or someone you know is struggling with maternal mental health, you can reach out to:

• Samaritans: 116 123

• PANDAS Foundation: https://www.pandasfoundation.org.uk

• Your local maternal mental health services