Publish date: 9 May 2025
“They gave me the space to just be me – as Kancha – not just a pregnant mother.”
Kancha, 37, has lived in Ealing for over 20 years. A proud mother of three, she reflected on her emotional journey during her third pregnancy – one that came with struggles and challenges, but also crucial support from our Perinatal Mental Health Service.
Diagnosed with a recurring depressive disorder after the birth of her second child, Kancha was referred to the Perinatal Mental Health Service early into her third pregnancy. This team supports women experiencing significant mental health difficulties during pregnancy and up to a year after birth.
Kancha was glad about growing a life inside of her but struggled with her own feelings and emotions, always feeling low. Kancha said: “I knew I wanted to have the baby – but emotionally, I don’t think I handle pregnancy well enough like many others. There were too many emotions going on to even understand myself at the time.”
She added: “I didn’t look like a happy pregnant woman, and that’s something people don’t often talk about. While I was happy about bringing a life into the world, deep down, I was physically and mentally exhausted. Every day felt like a new struggle.”
The team provided ongoing mental health support, regular check-ins, and helped her develop a birthing plan tailored to her needs. Kancha felt that she was given a space to just be herself, which helped her regulate her feelings. She said: “With the support I got, I realised it was okay to feel the way I was feeling.”
West London NHS Trust’s Perinatal Mental Health Service offers support for women across Ealing, Hammersmith & Fulham, and Hounslow. The team includes psychiatrists, psychologists, mental health nurses, social workers, and nursery nurses.
For Kancha, the support made a lasting impact. She said: “If I could give them awards, I would – for their excellent job.”
Anyone going through the same journey or knows someone who is, can contact NHS 111 or speak with their GP. You can also text ‘HUG’ to 85258 for free 24/7 support. Visit the West London NHS Trust perinatal mental health services or maternity trauma and loss care (MTLC) for more information.