Wilmington event to mark 10 years of raising awareness about perinatal mental health

Wilmington, NC (WWAY) — Families, health care providers and community organizations will gather next month for the 10th annual PSI’s The Climb – Wilmington, an event focused on perinatal mental health awareness and support.

The event is scheduled for Oct. 10 from 9 to 11 a.m. at Wrightsville Beach State Park.

The Climb is a program of Postpartum Support International, an organization that provides education, peer support and connections to care for people and families experiencing mental health challenges during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Organizers say the Wilmington event will give families an opportunity to meet local providers and organizations, learn about available resources and connect with others who have experienced challenges associated with pregnancy, postpartum, pregnancy loss and becoming a parent.

According to information provided by organizers, perinatal mental health conditions affect approximately one in five women and one in 10 men during the perinatal period.

“The Climb is about creating a community where families know they do not have to navigate pregnancy, postpartum, loss or the transition into parenthood alone,” said Marilea Moore, executive co-chair of the Postpartum Support International North Carolina State Chapter. “Families deserve access to information, support and pathways to care — not only when they are in crisis, but throughout the journey into parenthood.”

The Climb began in 2013 as an effort to increase awareness and understanding of perinatal mental health. Wilmington organizers are marking the local event’s 10th year.

Stephanie Vlad, a co-leader of the Wilmington event, said her own experiences with pregnancy loss, postpartum anxiety and other challenges in early parenthood influenced her involvement.

“I know it can feel enormous, and I also know it gets better with support,” Vlad said.

Postpartum Support International offers a HelpLine for parents, family members and friends seeking support and resources at 1-800-944-4773. The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline also provides 24-hour support during pregnancy and postpartum at 1-833-943-5746.

To register for the event, click this link.