I'm an actress and I am running the London Marathon for postpartum psychosis

An award-winning Blackpool writer and actress is running the London Marathon on Sunday to raise awareness of postpartum psychosis - a severe mental illness which starts suddenly in the days, or weeks, after having a baby.  Lauren-Nicole Mayes, 30, who has starred in ITV’s hit thriller The Bay is about to take on her biggest challenge yet as she gears up for Sunday’s London Marathon.

She will be running in aid of the national perinatal mental health charity, Action on Postpartum Psychosis (APP).

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Lauren broke into the world of writing having noticed a lack of stories representing the working-class women who raised her. 

Her first play BABYNUN XO premiered at The Lowry as part of a research and development week, following the story of Isabella and Mike and exploring the impact of postpartum psychosis.

The piece has since developed as a TV idea and now follows the stories of five sisters as one experiences the impact of PP which both unites and fractures them further.

It has been picked up by It’s All Made Up Productions and now has a broadcaster attached.

Lauren said: “When I was researching Babynun XO I spent a huge amount of time speaking to APP’s community of women and families affected by postpartum psychosis.

“I saw first-hand how vital the charity is when it comes to helping people recover from this devastating illness, and I can’t think of a better cause to fundraise for.”

Is she nervous about the run?

She added: “You can become so fixated on the end goal, but the training in itself, both from a physical and psychological point of view, is a marathon in its own right.

“It’s safe to say I’m feeling nervous but I keep reminding myself that I am limitless, and I know if I think about the reason I am running and the charity I am raising money for it will absolutely keep me strong and get me through the tough times.” Postpartum psychosis affects 1-2 in every thousand births in the UK and it can occur completely out of the blue in women with no previous mental health problems.

Symptoms include extreme elation or euphoria, sudden mood changes and the rapid onset of unusual beliefs.

Women may also experience visual and auditory hallucinations, extreme confusion and anxiety.  

It’s a serious illness that should always be considered a medical emergency, however, most women do go on to make a full recovery with the right treatment and support. 

Lauren is aiming to raise £1,000 for APP. If you would like to make a donation click HERE.