Action on Postpartum Psychosis

Action on Postpartum Psychosis (APP) is a UK charity dedicated to supporting women and families affected by postpartum psychosis (PP), a severe form of postnatal illness that affects 1-2 in every 1,000 new mothers. The symptoms of PP include hallucinations, delusions, extreme mood swings, and confusion, typically beginning in the days following childbirth[1][4].

Mission and Activities

APP's mission is to reduce maternal deaths caused by PP, decrease isolation, and improve recovery outcomes. To achieve this, the charity offers several key services:

• Peer Support: APP runs an award-winning peer support service, connecting women and families across the UK with recovered volunteers through various channels, such as an online forum, one-to-one email support, video and in-person meetings, social groups, and creative workshops. This support network helps those affected feel understood and supported, reducing feelings of isolation[3][4].

• Patient Information: The charity develops patient information in collaboration with specialists and individuals with lived experience. This includes signposting to relevant resources, specialist advice from a panel of experts, and access to a free second-opinion psychiatry service[3].

• Training and Education: APP provides training in postpartum psychosis, co-produced and delivered by academics, clinicians, and individuals with personal experience. This helps to enhance understanding and improve professional responses to PP[3].

• Research: The charity facilitates groundbreaking research into the causes of PP, treatments, and recovery processes. It collaborates with members to identify key research areas and communicates findings back to the community[3].

Impact and Leadership

Action on Postpartum Psychosis has been influential in reducing PP-related maternal deaths and improving overall support for those affected. Prior to its establishment, PP accounted for a significant proportion of postnatal suicides, but with increased awareness and better services, these rates have decreased[4]. The charity's work has been recognized, with its Chief Executive inducted into the Charity Hall of Fame[2].

Collaborations and Structure

APP is run by a team of academics, health professionals, and individuals who have been personally affected by PP. This collaboration ensures a comprehensive approach, combining lived experience with expert knowledge to deliver effective support and advocacy[1][4].

[1] https://maternalmentalhealthalliance.org/membership/current-members/action-on-postpartum-psychosis/ [2] https://www.app-network.org [3] https://www.app-network.org/about-us/what-we-do/ [4] https://nspa.org.uk/member/action-on-postpartum-psychosis/ [5] https://www.instagram.com/actiononpp/