19th December 2023

Free online therapy courses to support New Zealand women experiencing perinatal distress

We're proud to share the launch of two new courses – Pregnancy Wellbeing and Postnatal Wellbeing. Using proven and effective cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), these courses aim to support the estimated 1 in 5 NZ women who experience depression and the 1 in 7 NZ women who experience anxiety during their perinatal journey.

“There’s likely a lot more māmā struggling that we don’t know about,” says Just a Thought clinical lead Anna Elders. “It’s not uncommon for women to not reach out due to feeling a sense of whakamā or fear or even thinking their distress is a normal part of their journey.”

“Many māmā may have never had serious challenges with their mental health before or may be reluctant to ask for help.”

“Even if they do reach out, it’s not easy to get the tailored interventions women need at this crucial time in their life due to the level of strain on services.”

According to a 2022 report by Maternal Care Action Group NZ, of the 11,000 women estimated to experience perinatal depression and anxiety in New Zealand every year, 75% will not meet the criteria for specialist maternal mental health services due to their symptoms not being “severe enough”.

“This is very concerning,” says Anna. “The impact of mental distress at this critical time can be far-reaching, affecting not only the māmā but also her pēpi, whānau and the community.”

Just a Thought’s new online courses aim to provide mothers who may be struggling with a tailored, accessible and highly effective treatment option without any cost or barriers to access.

“We don’t want any woman to be left unsupported during this incredibly challenging time,” says Anna.

“We’re proud to be able to get these courses out there, as we know they will help many māmā whilst relieving pressure on services.”

“Not only will they help validate and support women during a challenging time, the courses will also empower new parents with a kete of skills and strategies to look after their wellbeing so they can focus on their growing whānau.”

Over 60,000 New Zealanders already use Just a Thought to support their mental wellbeing. All courses are free, based on proven and effective cognitive behavioural therapy, and are accessible online.

To learn more about these free courses, go to: Perinatal Courses | Just a Thought