For Ali, isolation wasn't just a feeling. It was geographical.
Living and working on a farm in remote Western Australia meant the nearest grocery store, along with many of the services and supports new mums elsewhere might take for granted, was a 90-minute drive away.
After the birth of her second child, Ali knew something wasn't right. She was experiencing frightening episodes of anger and rage, but didn't understand what was happening or where to turn.
Then she found Motherland.
After seeing Motherland on Landline, Ali connected with our community and discovered other rural mums were having conversations about the things she had been too afraid to say out loud.
For the first time, I realised I wasn't alone.
Those conversations helped Ali understand she was experiencing postpartum rage, and, importantly, gave her the confidence to keep seeking help.
She advocated for herself with her GP, accessed specialist perinatal mental health support through Gidget Foundation Australia and, during the hardest period, joined Motherland Village. There, she found a group of rural mums who understood.
"I honestly don't know what I would have done without their unconditional support, care and relatable motherhood journeys."
Today, Ali continues to access professional mental health support. She credits Motherland with helping her find the information, connection and courage she needed to advocate for herself.
"Motherland is helping to break down that stigma and giving each rural mother a voice. We are not alone, and it's okay not to be okay."
Sometimes connection doesn't just make motherhood feel less lonely. It can help a mum take the next step towards getting the support she needs.
In Ali's words
“Motherland was the first thing I had decided to do for me as a mother and I am beyond blown away with the experience and of the group of women we had in our village. The support from Motherland, not only our village, but from Steph, Kate and our group facilitator Marissa was nothing short of amazing! The love I have of my country town is really captured throughout Motherland and this program has been the lifeline I needed while in the trenches! Thank you Motherland for providing lifelong meaningful friendships and an even bigger reason to convince the hubby we absolutely need a caravan to do a catch up!”
