By Dionne Meehan
KILLEA’S Sinead Feeney is on a mission to combat postpartum depression by hosting mummy meet ups around the county.
Last September, Sinead gave birth to her little bundle of joy Abbie-Leigh.
Once describing herself as outgoing and bubbly, Sinead found that her moods began changing soon after her daughter arrived.
Urged by her family to seek extra support, Sinead booked herself a doctor’s appointment where she was told she was suffering from postpartum depression.
Needing supports and needing them immediately, Sinead was faced with waiting lists everywhere she turned for help.
“Postpartum depression is so common the services in Donegal were packed out,” Sinead told the Donegal News.
“There are so many people that need help.
“I was put on a waiting list whereas, in my opinion, I needed to see someone quick,” she said.
This led Sinead down the private healthcare route.
“I went to New Beginnings in Buncrana.
“I went weekly and it is the best money I have ever spent on myself,” she said.
With most of her friends now living in Australia, Sinead’s counsellor suggested she tried groups, like baby yoga.
Not fond of the idea, Sinead came up with her own alternative.
“I was in my bed one night thinking, I just want someone to walk and talk with.
“I thought there has to be so many others in this position,” she said.
That is when the ‘Mummy Meet Ups’ brainchild was born.
Creating a private Facebook Group to post locations and dates, Sinead planned to host meet-ups fortnightly.
However, this soon changed when her first meet-up received an “overwhelming” response.
“Mammys need mammys to support each other.
“You are not supposed to do motherhood alone, it takes a village,” she said.
So far, Sinead’s group have visited locations such as Swan Park in Buncrana and the Bernard McGlinchey Town Park in Letterkenny, with some mothers saying the meet-ups are their favourite part of the week.
If you are interested in taking part in one of Sinead’s Mummy Meet Ups check out her private Facebook Page @mummy.meet.ups.2024
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