Mum Praises NHS Therapy After Miscarriages: 'I Finally Feel Like Myself Again'
A local mother-of-three has publicly praised NHS mental health services for providing crucial support that helped her recover from severe anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder following three devastating miscarriages. Rebecca Ametepe, aged 33, was referred to the NHS Bury Talking Therapies service after the birth of her daughter triggered intense flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts.
A Journey Through Trauma and Fear
Having experienced three miscarriages, including one at 17 weeks that required a hospital stay, Rebecca described living in constant fear for her baby daughter's safety. "I was convinced something terrible was going to happen to my baby," she explained. "I couldn't shake the feeling that she would be hurt or even kidnapped. Whatever the situation, my mind jumped straight to the worst-case scenario."
This overwhelming anxiety led Rebecca to isolate herself completely. She avoided baby groups, cancelled social plans, and sometimes remained upstairs in her bedroom with her infant. "My anxiety completely took over," she admitted, highlighting how her mental health struggles dominated her daily life.
The Turning Point: Seeking Specialised Support
The situation reached a critical point during an appointment with a health visitor, where Rebecca experienced a breakdown that prompted her to seek specialist mental health support. This led directly to her referral to NHS Bury Talking Therapies. Initially sceptical about the process, Rebecca began working with cognitive behavioural therapist Noreen Iqbal, who created a safe and understanding environment for open discussion.
Noreen took the extraordinary step of researching miscarriage and baby loss to better comprehend Rebecca's experiences, demonstrating genuine care and commitment. Through structured cognitive behavioural therapy sessions, Rebecca explored her traumatic memories, addressing both the most distressing moments and daily triggers that exacerbated her anxiety.
Therapeutic Techniques and Recovery Process
"Rebecca had withdrawn from others and avoided talking about what had happened," Noreen observed. "We used therapy techniques to revisit her most distressing moments, which gradually reduced her flashbacks and helped her regain a sense of control."
The therapy focused on helping Rebecca recognise and challenge unhelpful thought patterns, particularly those involving self-blame and guilt. This systematic approach enabled her to process her grief and anxiety in a healthy manner, rather than allowing them to control her life.
Honouring Lost Babies and Embracing Life
Today, Rebecca honours her lost babies with memory boxes and plant pots, creating tangible memorials that help her process her grief. She now feels ready to face life with her three healthy children and hopes her story will help break the stigma surrounding miscarriage and mental health struggles.
"From the first moment you know you're pregnant, you imagine a life with that baby. To have that taken away can have a huge impact," Rebecca emphasised. "Talking about it and getting help can change your life. I finally feel like myself again. I'm so grateful to the service and to Noreen for giving me a chance at a happier, healthier life with my family."
About NHS Bury Talking Therapies
The NHS Bury Talking Therapies service provides essential mental health support for individuals aged 16 and above who are registered with a general practitioner in the Bury area. The service offers assistance for various conditions including:
- Low mood and depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Chronic stress
- Sleep difficulties
- Panic attacks
- Specific phobias
Self-referral is available through a quick and straightforward online form, while referrals can also be made by general practitioners or other healthcare professionals. This accessibility ensures that those in need can obtain support without unnecessary barriers.
