'Mums are not getting the mental health support they need'

“Stephanie loved our baby with all her heart, and we loved her more than anything in this world." Warning: Sensitive content

A grieving husband is raising awareness about postnatal depression in the wake of his wife’s death.

Stephanie Castellanos, from Dee Why in Sydney, died on July 13. The 28-year-old leaves behind husband, Harry Kelleher, and their six-week-old daughter Valentina.

Her death is not being treated as suspicious.

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Speaking to the Manly Observer, Mr Kelleher said his wife “loved our baby with all her heart”.

“Stephanie loved our [baby] with all her heart, and we loved her more than anything in this world,” he said.

“She was a warm, bright light in this world that made my life, and she genuinely wanted to help this world the best she could.

“She taught me so much and I will continue to learn from her in heaven with her guidance. She will always be in my heart.”

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Stephanie had given birth to her daughter just six weeks before she tragically passed away. Picture: Manly Observer

"Mums aren't getting the support they need"

News.com.aureports Ms Castellanos was being treated for symptoms consistent with postnatal depression in the weeks before her death.

Parenting help service Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia (PANDA) reports current research estimates up to one in five women, and one in 10 men in Australia will experience anxiety and/or depression in the perinatal period.

Arabella Gibson, CEO of Gidget Foundation Australia, said Ms Castellanos’ death was a reminder that “mums are not getting the mental health support they need”.

“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.

About four in five new mums experience ‘baby blues’ in the first week after having a baby. These feelings are usually due to the hormonal changes that happen after during pregnancy and birth, according to Health Direct.

Symptoms may include feeling moody, anxious, tearful or have difficulty sleeping. Although challenging, they usually pass with no major intervention.

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Stephanie and her husband Harry. Picture: Manly Observer

"She touched so many people's lives"

For postnatal depression, symptoms last longer than two weeks, may be more severe, and interfere with mum or dad’s ability to function normally.

A GoFundMe has been set up friend Chalisa Parekowhai to help with funeral costs and support Mr Kelleher.

“Steph was infinitely kind and was always the first to offer a helping hand and a listening ear. Her genuine care for people, animals and nature made her an absolute joy to be around,” Ms Parekowhai said.

“She touched so many people’s lives, and anyone’s path who crossed her, was made all the better for it.”

Originally published as 'Mums are not getting the mental health support they need'