Approximately 1 in 5 new and expectant birth parents and up to 1 in 10 non-birth parents experience problematic symptoms of perinatal anxiety and/or depression. The mental health and wellbeing of new mothers, particularly those in rural and regional settings, is the focus of a special week in our region.
MLHD Clinical Leader Perinatal Infant Mental Health Keryl de Haan and SAFE START Coordinator MLHD Ashleigh Shipp, along with their fellow Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) colleagues have come together for multiple events held during PANDA week to raise awareness of depression and anxiety and how to access help.
“We know that looking after a newborn is a steep learning curve, even parents who find the transition relatively straightforward can experience feelings of stress, exhaustion and overwhelmed,” Keryl said.
“We know that stress, interrupted sleep and 2-hour demands can take their toll but they become more manageable when we are able to take care for and nurture ourselves.
“It is normal to experience a degree of anxiety and ‘ups and downs’ when expecting a baby and in the months that follow birth. However, some people develop a more pronounced anxiety or lowered mood which can affect their daily life and functioning.
“When this occurs during pregnancy it is known as antenatal anxiety or antenatal depression. Talking to a heath professional can help identify symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other perinatal mental health conditions and identify additional helpful strategies, support networks and treatment,” Keryl said.
It’s important to know that antenatal anxiety and depression is temporary and treatable and seeking help early has the best outcome.
MLHD staff have shared information and resources across the community this week to help raise awareness, including at Wagga Wagga City Council Library, Griffith Council Library, Narrandera Park and at Young Hospital.
