Having a new baby can be an exciting time, but it can also come with
unexpected challenges for parents. Between sleepless nights,
disruption to routine, changes in hormones, and shifts to the family
dynamic, it is no wonder many people struggle.
Anxiety and depression during pregnancy and the first-year
post-birth is very common for both women and partners.
As many people struggle with their mental health before and during pregnancy and continue to after childbirth, we use the term ‘Perinatal’ to cover the period from conception until the baby is 12 months old. People who have a history of anxiety and depression, as well as people who have never experienced them can be affected.
1 in 5 mums, and 1 in 10 partners, experience depression or anxiety in the perinatal period.
If you are concerned about how you, your partner or someone close to you is coping, you may find our perinatal mental health resources helpful. These resources contain useful information, practical coping strategies, and guidance on where to get help.
There is no need to suffer alone, help is available. It’s best to act early for you and your family’s wellbeing.
PANDA supports women and their families who are suffering perinatal anxiety or depression
Gidget Foundation supports the emotional wellbeing of expecting and new parents
Healthy Families (BeyondBlue) provides information and support to parents, guardians and families, and support for mental health and wellbeing
Centre of Perinatal Excellence (COPE) provides support for the emotional challenges of becoming a parent
What Were We Thinking (WWWT; Monash University) provides information and resources for new parents
Another option is online treatment. The MindSpot Clinic offers free
online and telephone delivered Treatment Courses which help people
manage their symptoms stress, anxiety, low mood and depression.
Get started by completing our brief online assessment, or read more
about our treatment courses.