APNI- Association for Post Natal Illness

Postnatally depressed women may feel unable to go out of their house, and meeting people may cause them a great deal of stress, therefore contact made on the phone or by e-mail can be ideal.

Women often find that talking, or writing to someone, who has had the illness and recovered, allows them to discuss the most distressing symptoms of the illness. The phone and e-mail volunteers also give women hope that they will eventually recover. For those who are not on the phone or e-mail we can offer the services of volunteers who will communicate by post. This service is also available to women who would prefer to be supported by post.

The Association has a countrywide network of phone, e-mail and postal volunteers, who have had, and recovered from post-natal illness. The volunteers are carefully vetted to ensure that they are completely well, that they have had no previous mental illness and that they are not opposed to drug therapy.

Depressed mothers are phoned or written to at regular intervals throughout their illness and the recovery period. The relationship between the volunteer and depressed mother is regularly monitored. Most women find it a great relief to talk to someone who really understands how they feel. Depressed mothers are always advised to seek medical help and constantly assured that they will recover.

The Association runs a support service for husbands and families of the depressed woman. Many of the volunteer husbands  will to talk to husbands of sufferers and offer help and advice if necessary.

If you are suffering from postnatal depression we recommend that you try talking to one of our volunteers. We are always happy to hear from depressed mothers and glad to answer any enquiries. You can ring us or email us, but please do enclose an S.A.E. if you write.

Who to contact

Telephone
0207 386 0868
E-mail
info@apni.org
Website
https://apni.org/

Where to go

Address
Association For Post-natal Illness, 145
Dawes Road
London
Postcode
SW6 7EB