Brimbank resident, Janelle Stinton, is an inspiring mother who has struggled with Post Natal Depression (PND), yet after joining Baptcare’s PND Supported Group, Play and Grow, life for Janelle and her child has improved dramatically.
From a young age, Janelle aspired to have her own family and was thrilled the day she found out she would become a mother. After giving birth to her baby boy Justice, Janelle expected to feel the instant connection and bond with her baby. It never happened.
“I didn’t want to hold him; I thought I made a mistake. He was constantly crying and I just didn’t know what to do,” said Janelle.
The 32 year old was struggling to get out of bed; she lacked any desire to go outside and her routine was suddenly confined to her house. She had no desire to interact and removed herself from the community.
“I didn’t bond with Justice for fourth months. I did the expected motherly things such as feeding and cleaning him but that was it,” said Janelle.
Janelle is one of the many women who has benefited from Baptcare’s supported play group. This program provides women with PND a chance to share their experiences and to get involved in social activities that encourage mothers to bond with their child. It’s also an ideal setting for participants to learn and develop from their experiences in a safe and non-judgemental environment.
“The transition to becoming new parents is one of the most significant changes in life. It’s one of the most fulfilling moments yet it naturally comes with its unexpected challenges. Janelle story is not uncommon as there are many parents in the community in need of extra support. We are urging mothers who may feel they need extra emotional support to reach out for support,” said Baptcare’s Family and Community Services General Manager, Marita Scott.
After a few sessions, Janelle started to notice an uplifting difference. Her emotional wellbeing was slowly improving.
“It was the best thing I could have done and it’s been the basis in which I’ve been able to form a relationship with Justice,” said Janelle.
Janelle has been a program participant for over a year and each session is a motive for her to be the best possible mother to her son. She has returned to study and has ambitions to further her knowledge and skills in the legal field.
“The program became the reason I got up in the morning. The staff taught me numerous things such as playing with my child and learning how to bring balance back into my life. From the first session, I felt like I belonged to the group because I felt so welcomed by the staff. Baptcare’s workers taught me how to be a mother again and my confidence has returned. I love my son and I couldn’t image not having him in my life,” said Janelle.
Baptcare’s PND Support Group is welcome to all women in need of extra support who reside in the local government area of Brimbank. For more information about this program, please contact Baptcare on 9373 3800 or vicfamilycommunityservices@baptcare.org.au.