“It's not only depression, it's worry, it's anxiety, it's anger and rage.”

Journalist Te Rauhiringa Krystal-Lee Brown shares her story of perinatal anxiety and depression.

Māori have the highest national rate of childbirth, but there's only a small proportion of Māori midwives in the workforce who are equipped with the knowledge to care for Māori mothers.

As a result, the majority of Māori mothers are cared for by midwives that know nothing about traditional Māori practices.

This is part of our reo Māori series, Ohinga, created by Mahi Tahi Media, with funding from Te Māngai Pāho.

Stay tuned for a new episode every week.

Where to get help:

  • 1737: The nationwide, 24/7 mental health support line. Call or text 1737 to speak to a trained counsellor.
  • Suicide Crisis Line: Free call 0508 TAUTOKO or 0508 828 865. Nationwide 24/7 support line operated by experienced counsellors with advanced suicide prevention training. 
  • Youthline: Free call 0800 376 633, free text 234. Nationwide service focused on supporting young people.


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