In a heartfelt letter to charity, Kate Middleton has highlighted the “unseen” mental health struggles faced during pregnancy, emphasizing that every parent’s story is important.
‘Their new photographic exhibition, “This is Also Motherhood”, explores the often unseen realities of mental health throughout pregnancy and beyond. ‘At the heart of this exhibition are ten extraordinary women. Their courage to speak openly about their experiences, whether marked by trauma, joy, or resilience, demonstrates the great vulnerability and strength of the human condition. ‘Through their portraits and letters, they remind us that no one should have to navigate the perinatal journey alone.’
The MMHA is a UK-wide charity and network of more than 100 organisations, working to ensure women and families affected by perinatal mental problems have access to high-quality comprehensive care and support. The charity says around one in four women and one in ten fathers can be affected by perinatal mental illnesses. Left untreated, they can be devastating and even deadly, but with the right support, recovery is possible. Kate continued: ‘The exhibition is a testament to the MMHA’s core mission; ensuring every family in the UK gets the mental health care and support they need, before, during and after pregnancy.
‘This is Also Motherhood’ reminds us that perinatal mental health problems can be overcome. Every parent’s story matters and every voice has the power to help build a society where love, hope, and compassion are at the heart of everything we do.’ The mother-of-three has focused on early years support and mental health throughout her royal career. Kate has made the early years development of children one of the main pillars of her public role and her patronage with the MMHA complements the work she is trying to do through her Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood.
