Villagehood Australia

Villagehood Australia, established in 2020, is South Australia’s only registered charity dedicated to providing mother-centric peer support during the early years of motherhood (0-5 years). The organisation addresses a critical need in maternal mental health, as 1 in 5 women in Australia experience postnatal depression within two years of giving birth. With suicide being the leading cause of maternal death in Australia, Villagehood Australia’s role in offering support is vital.

Operating primarily in Adelaide, Villagehood Australia’s evidence-based programs and grassroots initiatives offer face-to-face support, fostering community engagement, social connections, and confidence in navigating motherhood. These programs provide essential skills and knowledge to help mothers cultivate nurturing relationships, fostering a sense of purpose and a positive mindset. The ultimate goal is to empower mothers to engage socially and economically within their communities.

Since its inception, Villagehood Australia has built a vibrant community of mothers from diverse backgrounds across South Australia. Approximately one-third of the community members are migrant mothers from regions such as Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, who may face additional challenges and cultural needs.

Villagehood Australia offers a variety of free programs tailored to address the diverse needs of mothers and their children:
– Mummy Chat | Group Coaching Program: A supportive space for mothers to share experiences and receive coaching.
– Baby Steps | Professional Support: Focuses on early childhood development, offering strategies for nurturing babies’ growth.
– Circle of Security PLUS | Reflective Parenting Program: Combines the Circle of Security Parenting approach with life coaching to foster secure attachments and personal growth.
– Singing Hearts | Mindful Music Program: Uses music to enhance mental health and promote joyful connections between mothers and children.

Through these programs, Villagehood Australia provides mothers with a holistic toolkit to navigate the challenges of motherhood positively. This support helps mitigate the adverse effects of postnatal depression, promoting secure attachments between mothers and their children and benefiting the broader community. Investing in mother-centric peer support programs is not only beneficial for maternal mental health but also a cost-effective solution for addressing South Australia’s mental health gap, estimated at $125 million.

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