Keeping Mum: Postnatal Depression - an ITV investigation

An exclusive report has revealed more than one in two women with postnatal depression in the West Country have thought of taking their own life.

A thousand women were asked about their experiences in a survey commissioned by ITV West Country and the postnatal depression charity PANDAS.

WHAT IS POSTNATAL DEPRESSION:

  • During pregnancy and in the year after birth women can be affected by a range of mental health problems including anxiety, depression and postnatal psychotic disorders.

  • It can affect around one in five woman, and if untreated, can have a devastating impact on them and their families.

  • Postnatal depression is just one of a number of mental health problems which can occur before, during or after pregnancy.

WHAT IS PANDAS?

support and advise any parent who is experiencing a perinatal mental illness. We are also here to inform and guide family members, carers, friends and employers as to how they can support someone who is suffering.

PANDAS survives thanks to the hard work of our dedicated volunteer team and your own donations. If you are interested in fundraising for our vital support services, please contact our fundraising team

  • PANDAS stands for Pre and Post Natal Depression Advice and Support

  • It's a support and advice service for anyone experiencing a perinatal mental illness.

  • They also inform and guide family members, carers, friends and employees on how they can support someone who is suffering.

  • It's a small charity who completely rely on donations to support families.

  • You can access their website here.

  • If you want to donate to PANDAS - you can here.