The Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, made a virtual call to new mothers in honor of the United Kingdom’s Maternity Mental Health Awareness Week from May 4th to 10th.
She called to congratulate some new parents, and spoke with them about their experience giving birth in the middle of a global health crisis.
It was quite a surprise for the couple!
Rebecca and John, who were still in hospital, revelling in the birth of their adorable son, Max. Not many parents can say their child was welcomed into the world by royalty!
The Duchess struggled with her own self-doubt and confidence when she became a new mom six years ago, and echoed the sentiments of every new parent: there is nothing that can truly prepare you for the experience!
And she acknowledges that she has a whole support system at home which most other women don’t have.
Prince William went through some tough emotional barriers around becoming a new father, too. It brought up some traumatic memories about his own mother, Princess Diana, who of course died in a tragic car accident when he was very young.
Even royalty struggles with parenthood!
Kate also spoke to midwives and experts, and asked workers in the maternity ward if they had noticed a difference in new mothers’ state of mind since the pandemic.
“There’s a lot more anxiety. We’re finding that that there’s women that have no mental health history but are actually becoming incredibly anxious because of the situation currently.” – hospital staff
And she thanked them for their hard work during these difficult times.
Both William and Kate are advocates for Mental Health Awareness and lead campaigns for the Heads Together program, which aims to tackle stigma against mental health.
It’s a cause very close to their hearts, and they want to remind new parent they’re not alone. Sometimes having some self doubt, being tired, and being overwhelmed by crying babies or toddler tantrums is totally normal.
Kate also spoke to medical staff at Kingston Hospital about whether they feel like new mothers know where to go or who to contact when they need support.
The hospital has an extensive network of support systems across the country. And especially in the midst of this crisis, efforts have been made to give new parents some more pointers and coping mechanisms while they settle into parenthood.
For example, tips on how to cope with the “new not-so-normal” and mental health when homeschooling.
Having a child is challenging enough on its own, but the anxiety of keeping a newborn safe in the middle of a pandemic is understandably overwhelming.
Of course, staff are doing their best to give their utmost attention to patients and build a connection, but say it has been difficult when facial expressions are hidden behind masks at all times.
“Even with what’s going on, we’re still here to support you, we’re still here to listen to you.” – hospital staff
While their awareness campaign focuses on making sure new parents know where to find help, it’s also centred around shifting people’s priorities. Mental health is so important and is often shied away from, unlike physical health.
The organization is working towards fighting against mental health stigma, and making sure new parents know they’re not alone.
“As organizations you’re playing such a vital role, giving key information you’re hugely trusted by the public and in general, and therefore the information you provide is a lifeline to a lot of people at this time.” – Kate Middleton
Watch the video below for more on her virtual visit to the hospital.
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