Kate Lawler has thanked her fans for their "love and support".
Kate Lawler
The 'Big Brother' star was at "breaking point" last week as her newborn daughter, Noa, has been taken into hospital three times in as many weeks, and she has now penned a lengthy post to thank those who have supported her through her "darkest" time.
Sharing a photo of herself wearing a top that reads "It's ok to feel s***" on Instagram, she said: "So many people have reached out, sent messages of love, support, advice & understanding. Just because you’ve chosen and been fortunate enough to conceive, carry and birth a little human, it doesn’t mean that it’s all sunshine & rainbows. For some it’s dark, stormy & no parent should have to pretend it’s going well when it isn’t. It’s okay to feel s***."
The 40-year-old star also praised fellow parents for sharing their own stories and she hopes that by sharing her story on social media it will encourage others to find light.
"I’ve been inundated with messages from Mums & Dads telling me they felt like this too (in the newborn days and beyond) but couldn’t admit it to anyone. They behaved like everything was great when it wasn’t & it’s heartbreaking to hear they felt obliged to not speak their truth.
"Big love to every parent old and new smashing it right now, but if you’re struggling, I hope my previous post will encourage more women & men to speak up (especially during the postpartum period) about WHATEVER is affecting their mental or physical health, their child, relationship or anything else making them feel sad, confused, anxious, depressed, scared or whatever. Whether it’s to relatives, partners, friends, midwives or health visitors. There are also fantastic charities like @pandas_uk who are there to support families coping with a perinatal mental illness."
Kate ended her post by thanking those closest to her, who have been able to offer a shoulder to cry on during her toughest moments.
"To my family, friends, everyone who has offered a shoulder to cry on - albeit over the phone/FaceTime, illegal hugs to walk our dogs, to walk with me, bake cakes, make us food, come over to help out (even though it’s not allowed) you have no idea how much this has lifted me. Finally, I can’t read all your messages but hand on heart I appreciate every single one of them, so apologies if you don’t get a reply. I love you all x (sic)"
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