In connection with Action for Postpartum Psychosis (APP) miles for mums and baby fundraising I have set myself a challenge to walk/hike 22 miles in one day. 22miles - 1 mile for each mother and baby unit within the UK.

I have decided that I will complete the walk on international fathers mental health day 21/6/21 to raise awareness of the impact that postpartum psychosis has not only on mum and baby but the fathers too. As this illness impacts the whole family unit

The money raised will be split between APP who offer support to women and their familys who have experienced postpartum psycosis and Anderson ward MBU who provide inpatient specialist treatment for women who experience postpartum psychosis and other perinatal mental illness with my local area.

Postpartum psychosis is a severe mental illness which begins suddenly following childbirth. This is a medical emergency and help should be sought. It’s is unlikely that the mum would notice the onset of this illness.  Symptoms include hallucinations and delusions, often with mania, depression or confusion. An episode of postpartum psychosis can effect anyone not only those with mental health illnesses history. This can be very frightening, for the women and her family. Most women will make a full recovery but this can be  a long and difficult process. 

Over 1400 women experience PP each year in the UK (1 to 2 in every 1000 mothers). 

I have decided to take part in the miles for mums campaign to raise funds for APP who do a fantastic job supporting mums who have experienced postpartum psychosis and their families. Within my role as a perinatal mental health nurse I will signpost the mums and partner I work with to APP for support and use the information leaflets to give to families who are living with this illness insight into the support available to them. 

The MBU provide essential, comprehensive specialist care for mums and ensure that baby can stay with mum through this time.