Duchess Kate has opened up about her own experiences as a mother while introducing the Out of the Blue documentary film series, a project looking into mental health during the early years of parenthood.

The Duchess firstly wanted to acknowledge the tragic terrorist attack in London that claimed four lives and injured dozens more on Wednesday.

“Before I begin, I know you would all want to join me in sending our thoughts and prayers to all those sadly affected by yesterday’s terrible attack in Westminster,” she said. “We will be thinking of all the families, as we discuss the important issues we’re here to talk about.”

She then began to talk about the mental health challenges that new mothers often face. “Personally, becoming a mother has been such a rewarding and wonderful experience. However, at times it has also been a huge challenge — even for me who has support at home that most mothers do not,” the Duchess, 35, said, shares US Weekly.

“Nothing can really prepare you for you the sheer overwhelming experience of what it means to become a mother.

It is full of complex emotions of joy, exhaustion, love and worry, all mixed together. Your fundamental identity changes overnight. You go from thinking of yourself as primarily an individual to suddenly being a mother, first and foremost.”

The mum of two said that there is no “rule book” or “right or wrong” when it comes to motherhood.

“You just have to make it up and do the very best you can to care for your family. For many mothers, myself included, this can, at times lead to lack of confidence and feelings of ignorance,” she continued.

“Sadly, for some mothers, this experience can be made so much harder due to challenges with their own mental health.”

Duchess Kate encouraged mothers who are having a difficult time to seek help.

“[It] should not be seen as a sign of weakness,” she shared.

“Mothers take on an overwhelming responsibility of caring for their families. Their role is vital in providing unconditional love, care and support at home, particularly in the early years of a child’s development. We therefore should do everything we can to support and value their hard work.”

If you or someone close to you is seeking help please contact Lifeline 13 11 14 OR PANDA National Helpline, Mon to Fri, 10am – 5pm AEDT, 1300 726 306.

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