Kate becomes patron of organisation working to support mental health of mothers

The Duchess of Cambridge has said no mother is “immune to experiencing anxiety and depression” as she became patron of a “fantastic organisation” supporting the mental health of women.

Kate said it was crucial for those “struggling” to be given the “right support at the right time” and also urged society to play its part, saying everyone needed to help “parents and carers, and all those who are raising children today”.

Her words were spoken in a video message recorded to mark her new role as patron of the Maternal Mental Health Alliance (MMHA), announced during Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week, which ends on Sunday.

The MMHA is a UK-wide charity and network of more than 100 organisations, working to ensure women and families affected by perinatal mental health problems have access to high-quality comprehensive care and support.

The duchess said in her video, the message of the week was about the “power and importance of connection” and how the past two years had reminded everyone about the role of relationships in long-term health and happiness, especially at the start of life for infants.

She added: “But we all know that pregnancy, childbirth and the first months and years of a child’s life can be hugely demanding. Parents often feel lonely and overwhelmed by these early years.

“Around 20% of women in the UK are reported to experience perinatal mental illness. Sadly, we also know that many more are suffering in silence. No one is immune to experiencing anxiety and depression during this time.

“It is crucial, therefore, that all those who might be struggling are given the right support at the right time, so that they’re able to share these feelings without fear of judgment and can access the information, care and support they need to recover.”

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