New family support group in Joburg

The Peri and Postnatal Family Support Group provides a wide array of services to women and their families who experience challenges related to pregnancy, infertility difficulties, birth, adjustments to parenthood, perinatal loss and more.

The group offers women a warm, caring, non-judgmental, understanding and safe environment for all members to share, learn and feel supported in their journey. The groups first meeting will be on the 18 July, and then every third Saturday of the month, from 9-10.30am in Ruimsig, Johannesburg.

The group will be facilitated by Mental Health Worker, PNDSA Committee Member and Mom, Meryl Da Costa, as well as Psychologist and Family Expert, Candice Cowen.

"Many moms who are having difficulties don't know that there is support and help for them, many suffer in silence in fear of being judged, discriminated or viewed as a bad mom," says Da Costa. "I have myself suffered from postnatal depression - I know what it's like and how important it is to have support. So many women feel they are alone in this as they are too embarrassed to speak up; by attending a Support Group they'll learn that this is far from the truth!"

The group will be open to all, including dads and other family members who need additional support, encouragement and help through this difficult adjustment.

To attend the group or for more information, please email Meryl Da Costa moc.liamtoh@x.lyrem.