Throughout my life, I was told I could be whoever and do whatever I wanted. And I did, for most of my 20s and 30s. Then I became a mum.
Suddenly, all those choices disappeared. Suddenly, I started to disappear... Every decision seemed to revolve around my child, and every piece of advice I received was centred on them, not me.
I felt like I had lost myself, like I didn't have a say in my own life anymore. I felt dismissed... and I know I'm not alone in feeling this way.
Many of us mothers are made to believe that we should be grateful simply because we wanted to have kids. We're told that as long as our babies are healthy, we should be happy. But beneath the surface, there's a reality that's often overlooked.
Postnatal depression affects one in five of us. Maternal suicide rates have tripled over the past decade, and the World Health Organisation has now confirmed that suicide is the leading cause of maternal death. These aren't just numbers; they're cries for help from mothers who are struggling, silently and alone.
Mums, we deserve better.
We deserve a society that respects us, acknowledges our sacrifices, and addresses the unique challenges we face. We deserve healthcare tailored to our needs and workplaces that support us as both mothers and individuals. We deserve communities that offer understanding without judgment and provide a safety net when we need it most. And above all, we deserve to feel safe – in our homes, in our communities, everywhere we go.
Knowing what we deserve is one thing, but taking action is more important.
Over four years ago, I founded "Villagehood Australia," a grassroots charity addressing maternal mental health with the mission to empower mothers in the early years, connecting them to communities and safeguarding their mental well-being.
Following the tragic loss of four mothers to suicide a couple of years ago, I became an even louder advocate for maternal mental health. For the past few years, I have tirelessly engaged with politicians from all sides, philanthropists, and private organisations, advocating for better support and crafting proposals for change.
And yes, every effort, from briefings to community programs, brings us one step closer to our vision for a better system, but the process is far too slow...
Speaking with other maternal mental health advocates, I have realised that despite our relentless advocacy, the mental well-being of mothers remains a low priority in Australia. Although recognised by many as “important,” it is not important enough to fully listen to us, implement our ideas, and, most crucially, fund more research or peer support groups like Villagehood Australia, who truly understand what mothers need right now.
So let me ask you, how much longer do we need to wait? How many more mothers have to suffer in silence and, more boldly, how many more children have to lose their mothers for Australia to start paying attention?
I am not prepared to wait any longer. Mums, we need to speak up more, get organised, and make things happen for ourselves. Only we know what we need, and it is crucial that we unite to demand real change. So please, share your story, align yourself with like-minded women, and get in touch with those who are already fighting the fight, including myself.
We need 'influential' mums from all sectors to come together to advocate for more than crumbs!
Together, we can truly build an 'army' of mothers and create a movement that ensures every mother is heard, valued, and supported. Together, we can break the status quo, advance our advocacy, and fast-track the change we so desperately need.
The time for waiting is over; the time for bold and united action is now! Let's connect today!
Connect with me here:
via email at dinah@villagehoodaustralia.com
via Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/dinahthomasset
via my Facebook Group of Women Who Mum
Dinah
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