A husband has spoken out to raise awareness about postpartum depression in the hopes of saving a life after the death of his own wife.
Stephanie Castellanos, 28, from Dee Why on Sydney’s northern beaches, died suddenly on July 13, leaving behind her husband Harry Kelleher and six-week-old daughter Valentina. Police are not treating her death as suspicious.
“Stephanie loved our (baby) with all her heart, and we loved her more than anything in this world,” Kelleher said. Male observer.
Police had issued a public alert when Ms Castellanos, who moved to Australia from the United States, first disappeared and another when a body was found in Curl Curl.
Mr. Kelleher, a former college tennis player, reached out to his wife’s family and decided to speak out to let people know that Ms. Castellanos was “a warm, bright light (who) wanted to help this world as best she could.”
Ms Castellanos was being treated for symptoms related to postpartum depression in the weeks leading up to her death, and Northern Beaches Hospital issued a statement saying it “extends our sincere condolences to the family for their loss”.
According to the Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia (PANDA) helpline, this physiological condition affects one in five new mothers and one in ten new fathers, often with their first child, but it can also appear after the birth of subsequent children.
Research conducted by the organisation in 2022 found that: ‘Of people who called the PANDA helpline, 63 per cent had not spoken to their partner about how they were feeling, while 83 per cent had not consulted a doctor or healthcare professional.’
Stephanie Castellanos, who moved to Australia from the United States, with her newborn daughter
Ms Castellanos’ husband, Harry Kelleher, said he wanted to raise awareness about postpartum depression in the hope of saving a life.
Arabella Gibson is the CEO of the Gidget Foundation Australia, which also provides support to new parents.
One of the charity’s facilities, Gidget House, attached to Northern Beaches Hospital, has provided support to more than 1,400 new families since opening in June 2022.
Ms Gibson said Ms Castellanos’ death “reminds us that many mothers still do not receive the mental health support they need”.
She said the stigma surrounding the condition can often make it difficult to talk about.
“Early intervention for perinatal mental health issues can improve recovery, so we encourage parents to seek support as soon as they notice any signs or symptoms of PNDA,” Ms Gibson said.
Symptoms of postpartum depression, also called perinatal depression, may include feelings of sadness, anxiety, frustration, irritability, guilt, emptiness, isolation, exhaustion, or inability to bond with a newborn.
Fatigue and changes in appetite are also associated with sleeping too much or too little; symptoms appear within 12 months after delivery and persist for two weeks or more.
Scientific studies have shown that people with this disease tend to show altered brain activity in the frontal lobe and a temporary decrease in connectivity in some other areas.
Ms Gibson said it is often difficult for those suffering from the condition to recognise it and get help, so partners and wider family members should also be on the lookout for symptoms.
New parents can seek help or advice from their GP, midwife or obstetrician, as well as support agencies such as the PANDA Helpline on 1300 726 306 and services offered by Gidget Foundation, including telehealth consultations, through its website.
TO GoFundMe has been launched to help Ms. Castellanos’ family by her friend Chalisa Parekowhai.
Mr Kelleher played college tennis in the United States and Ms Castellanos moved to Sydney’s Northern Beaches.
“Steph was endlessly kind and always the first to offer a helping hand and a listening ear. Her genuine interest in people, animals and nature made her an absolute joy to be around,” she said.
A report into his death will be prepared for the coroner.
PANDA Helpline 1300 726 306.
Lifeline 13 11 14.
13YARN to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples 13 92 76.
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