A Purley mum who beat post-natal depression by starting her own business is helping other parents to do the same.

Yuliana Topazly used to work as an entrepreneurship manager for a number of London Universities, but in September 2011, she was diagnosed with post-natal depression after the birth of her daughter, Jessica.

Uncomfortable with the idea of anti-depressants, discussions with her husband and family led her to decide a new challenge, in addition to motherhood, would be the best therapy.

Five months on and Mrs Topazly is running courses at children's centres and community venues, helping other parents to turn their ideas into viable businesses.

She said: "With jobless figures rising, I think a lot of parents are pushed to think about taking a job, any job and that's not always the best thing for them.

"Self-employment doesn't feature as a real option in much of the advice given out to parents, but with rising costs of childcare, running a business that fits around your family could be the answer.

"I wanted to create a business that would support parents and help them turn their ideas into reality."

The courses last for five hours and can be completed as day courses or sessions can be spread over five weeks.

They are aimed at any parent with a business idea or initiative that doesn't know how to turn it into a reality.

During the course, participants are given feasibility plans and access to resources needed to set up and run their own business.

The cost of the course also includes a 30 minute one-to-one mentoring session.

Mrs Topazly said while juggling a seven-month baby and a new business is tough, it is the best thing that could have happened to her.

She said: "Starting the business was the thing I needed to lift me out of my depression.

"I recognise it won't work for everyone, but now I get to combine my passion for entrepreneurship with my passion for my family in a way that suits me. It's the best therapy I could imagine."

To find out more about courses and whether there's one taking place near you visit phase1training.co.uk