Blue Stories Project - Auckland Region

The Blue Stories Project: sharing journeys out of perinatal depression. In 2021, the Blue Stories Project was initiated in Whakatū Nelson by illustrator and designer, Karolina Gorton, and Perinatal Support Nelson, as an exhibition of portraits alongside inspiring and encouraging stories. In 2022, the Project is expanding its reach nationwide. Stories from Auckland's community and original artwork created by Karolina will be exhibited from the 2nd of September to the 30th of September at the Pukekohe Library, with a special opening at 1pm on the 2nd. You are invited to come along and connect with these storytellers and the stories that so often remain untold. This exhibition has been created in association with Well Women Franklin.

"Women have been facing lots of stress and pressure since the global pandemic began, we have seen a big increase in referrals. This project will help to promote our support services, reduce stigma and give hope to women that they do not need to experience perinatal depression alone" -Bridget Davies, Well Women Franklin.

“... a deeply moving and profound project...” - Rachel Sanson, Nelson City Councillor

“The PND project display stopped me in my tracks today. Ka rawe! Good to see PND in the spotlight, from first person perspective.” - Rosamund Feeney, Community Programme Coordinator

Kaupapa

The Blue Stories Project supports activities that encourage rerekē mō te pai (change for the better) and te kotahitanga i roto i te kanorautanga (unity in diversity). This is a project that creates a culture of supporting ALL women and their families. It educates communities and normalises the topic of perinatal depression.

Ngā mihi nui

The Blue Stories Project has been created in conjunction with Perinatal Support Nelson and Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Aotearoa (PADA) and with support from the National Lottery Community Grants scheme. These seven organisations are involved in the project: Well Women Franklin, Perinatal Wellbeing Canterbury, Maternal Mental Wellbeing Marlborough, Central Lakes Family Services, True Colours - Honouring the Mother and Little Shadow.

What’s next?

During Aotearoa New Zealand’s Mental Health Awareness Week, the Blue Stories Project is launching a nationwide poster campaign to promote awareness of perinatal depression. Look out for our posters on a bollard near you!

Want to find out more?

Head to www.bluestoriesproject.com to listen to interviews and to see the complete Blue Stories Project exhibition schedule.