About the name of the blog

Do we need forks? is a name that reflects my philosophy about technology - the first question we should ask is "Do I NEED this?" Will it make my life and meaningful occupations easier, or better in some way?
As a student (first time around), I remember reading a scene from a play set in the 1600s, where French nobles were wondering what to do with a fork. The social context meant that forks were unnecessary. In that time, people would bring a knife, use a spoon for liquids, and hands for everything else. In a different social context where people are concerned about hygiene, a fork seems relevant. Or you could just wash your hands really well before each meal.
This philosophy about technology relates well to frameworks of occupational therapy. We look at the person - do they really need this technology? - the occupation - how meaningful is this occupation and do they need technology to make it easier to participate in? - and the environment, which includes social factors - is this technology going to fit with their environment?

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Online communities - support for people with post-natal depression

The area of interest I've chosen is online communities that support mothers who have post-natal depression (PND).  My first placement was in maternal mental health, and I know that support from other people who were experiencing the same symptoms was really helpful to many of the clients using the service.

We have a great New Zealand website called Mothers Matter -  www.mothersmatter.co.nz 

This website was set up by the Postnatal Depression Family/Whanau Trust to improve awareness of PND and other mental illnesses that arise as the result of pregnancy and/or childbirth.

This website is a great stepping-off point to find resources.
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