Lifting the fog on perinatal depression

When Karolina Gorton was pregnant with her second child, a dark cloud hung over her.

“It came very suddenly. I didn’t know what was going on with me. It was like a fog above my head.”

Karolina was experiencing perinatal depression - the depression that occurs during pregnancy or in the first year following the birth of a child.

Four years later and on the other side, the local illustrator and designer has used her experience, and the stories of other women, to create the ‘Blue Stories Project’ - which opened at the Elma Turner Library on Sunday.

Karolina has created ten portraits of women with each containing a story and an encouraging message.

Karolina says she wanted to create a “positive” project.

“My idea was to use stories from women who experienced it but are on the other side. This exhibition is not about perinatal depression by itself, but actually about the strong women who were willing to share their experience.”

The project is in collaboration with Perinatal Support Nelson, who was instrumental in Karolina’s recovery.

“My recovery was going on walks, yoga, contacting my GP, and going to free counselling with Perinatal Support Nelson.

“My friends checked on me and gave me meals when my son was born. The community around you is so important when you are going through it.”

Karolina says it is important for women to talk about their experiences.

“When I talk with other women about this project, so many have told me that they, or their friend, mum or sister has had it - I was finding out how common it is.

“We can empower other people by sharing our stories, but what is more important, is we might be able to reach people who may need that help.”

Perinatal Support Nelson chairman Duncan Gray says 25 percent of women are affected by perinatal depression.

“Our vision is that every woman with perinatal depression is supported in our community.”

The project has received funding from Nelson City Creative Communities Scheme, Tasman District Creative Communities Scheme and Lottery Community grant.

The project will also have an online presence with all stories and portraits posted on www.bluestoriesproject.com and people are invited to send their stories via the website. Blue Stories Project is on until May 30 at the Elma Turner Library.