- 19th November 2024
When I’m out and about and see a parent trying to calm their baby I’m reminded of just how stressful and overwhelming the early days of parenthood can be. It’s full of joy but also unexpected challenges, exhaustion and worries. As amazing as it can be, parenthood can be as tough on mental health as it is on physical health. This week is Perinatal Mental Health Awareness Week—a time to shine a light on the emotional journey of expecting and new parents, to increase awareness and to remind us all of the importance of mental health support during this critical period.
At Cova Psychology we’re committed to supporting perinatal mental health which is why I wanted to write this blog. Many parents feel unprepared for the emotional hit that often comes with a new baby and we need to acknowledge that support is available. This blog will touch on some of the common challenges new parents face from anxiety and depression to feelings of isolation or overwhelm. We want to make parents feel they’re not alone and comfortable to reach out for help when they need it. Here at Cova our experienced team offer gentle and evidence based support tailored to the needs of parents in this phase, from individual therapy to resources to help you transition into parenthood.
Table of Contents
What is Perinatal Mental Health?
Perinatal mental health refers to the emotional, psychological and social well-being of parents during the perinatal period which includes both pregnancy and the first year after birth. This phase is marked by many physical, emotional and lifestyle changes that affect each parent differently. From adjusting to new roles to sleepless nights the demands of this period can be overwhelming. Perinatal mental health is about helping parents manage these challenges by providing resources, emotional support and intervention when needed. Supporting mental health during this time isn’t just good for parents it’s also good for the overall well-being and development of their children. Our team is committed to providing high quality care and support so parents feel supported throughout this journey.
Why Perinatal Mental Health Awareness Matters?
Awareness is the first step to understanding and empathy which is essential for supporting new parents. There are many reasons why perinatal mental health awareness is so important: Having a mental health plan can be a critical step in ensuring new parents get the support they need including access to Medicare rebates for counselling services.
The Numbers
Perinatal mental health challenges are more common than you think, 1 in 5 new mums and 1 in 10 new dads in Australia. That’s 100,000 Australian parents a year experiencing perinatal depression, anxiety or other mental health issues. Those numbers are big but many parents still feel alone in their struggles.
Impact on Families
If left unaddressed perinatal mental health can have long term effects on both the parent and the child. Unresolved mental health issues can impact attachment, emotional regulation and overall development of the child. By supporting parents we help create a healthy family environment that promotes the emotional and developmental well-being of the child.
We also offer grief counselling for families who are dealing with loss during the perinatal period.
Reducing Stigma
Perinatal mental health struggles often come with an unfair sense of shame, many parents feel like they “should” be happy during this time. Thoughts like “I’m a bad parent” or “I’m supposed to feel fulfilled” are common but these feelings don’t diminish ones abilities or worth as a parent.
Raising awareness helps to normalise these experiences, we encourage more open conversations around mental health during the perinatal period. When we talk about perinatal mental health we reduce the stigma and help parents feel comfortable to reach out for help. Creating an environment where parents feel seen and supported is key to addressing these challenges early.
What are some Perinatal Mental Health Issues?
Perinatal mental health covers a range of issues each of which can affect new parents differently. Here are some of the common mental health issues that can occur during this time: Eating disorders are also a perinatal mental health issue.
Perinatal Depression and Anxiety
Perinatal depression and anxiety are more common than you think and can occur during pregnancy and postpartum. These conditions can cause feelings of sadness, hopelessness, excessive worry and lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed. It’s important to remember that having these symptoms doesn’t mean you’re a failure it means you’re overwhelmed by the demands of early parenting.
Look Out For
Symptoms of perinatal mental health struggles may include persistent sadness, fatigue, overwhelming worry, difficulty bonding with the baby and intrusive thoughts. Parents may also feel guilty or inadequate, like they’re not meeting their own or others expectations. Recognising these signs early is key to getting support early as early intervention can prevent more severe mental health issues from developing.
Isolation and Expectations
New parents feel isolated especially when their support networks aren’t as accessible. Many also face the pressure of “perfect parenting” expectations which can lead to feelings of inadequacy. Realising these feelings are common can help parents connect with each other and reduce the pressure they put on themselves.
Bipolar Disorder
Perinatal bipolar disorder can involve severe mood swings with depressive lows and manic highs that can prevent a parent from caring for themselves or their baby. Untreated bipolar disorder can put both parent and baby at risk. Professional support including therapy and sometimes medication is key to managing this safely.
Perinatal Psychosis
This rare but serious condition can develop suddenly in the postpartum period. It involves symptoms like hallucinations, delusions and extreme mood swings. Perinatal psychosis is a medical emergency as it puts both parent and baby at risk. Immediate intervention often in a hospital setting is needed to get safe and effective treatment.
Risk Factors
Several risk factors can increase your chances of developing perinatal mental health disorders. These include a history of mental health issues, trauma or abuse, relationship problems, financial stress and lack of social support. Complications during previous pregnancies or childbirth and a family history of mental health issues can also contribute to the risk. Recognising these risk factors early is key to getting support and intervention early. By understanding and addressing these factors you can manage your mental health and create a supportive environment for your growing family.
How to Get Support for Perinatal Mental Health
Getting support during the perinatal period is key to emotional and mental well-being. Here’s how parents can get the help they need:
Counselling is a crucial part of managing perinatal mental health issues, providing professional support for anxiety, depression and other challenges.
Diagnosis and Assessment
Diagnosis and assessment of perinatal mental health disorders involves a thorough evaluation of an individual’s mental health history, current symptoms and concerns. PIMHS clinicians including midwives and child and family health nurses use standardised assessment tools to diagnose and develop a personalised treatment plan. This may involve clinical interviews, psychological questionnaires, review of medical history and use of mental health screening tools. A thorough diagnosis and assessment allows PIMHS clinicians to develop a treatment plan specific to each individual so they can get the best possible care and support.
Getting Professional Help
Talking to a psychologist, therapist or perinatal mental health specialist can provide a safe space for parents to talk about their feelings, manage stress and develop coping strategies. Professional support can help parents process their experiences and feel more equipped to deal with early parenthood. Social workers also play a key role in providing perinatal mental health support.
Joining Support Groups
Many local and online support groups provide a safe space for parents to share their experiences and get peer support. These groups can be very reassuring, help parents feel less alone and connect with others who get it. Perinatal Mental Health Awareness Week also highlights various resources and support networks so parents can find what’s right for them.
Self Care and Partner Support
Self care although hard during this time is crucial for mental health. Strategies like sleeping when you can, being open with your partner and reaching out to family or friends for practical help can all contribute to better mental health. Self care is not a luxury but a foundation for mental resilience during the perinatal period. Couples counselling is also available to address relationship issues during this time.
Perinatal Mental Health Awareness Week
Perinatal Mental Health Awareness Week is a time to focus on mental health for expecting and new parents. This week is about educating, supporting and inspiring action so all parents have access to mental health care. During this week various initiatives bring communities together for perinatal mental health with activities including:
Each year events such as information sessions, webinars, support groups and social media campaigns take place across Australia. These initiatives provide information, connect parents with resources and a platform for parents to share their experiences. Perinatal Mental Health Awareness Week reminds us that mental health challenges in early parenthood are normal and support is available.
More Resources
PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) is a fantastic resource providing support and information to expecting and new parents experiencing perinatal mental health challenges. They provide a helpline and various resources to help parents navigate this critical period. For more information, visit PANDA’s website.
Our Melbourne Psychologists
Perinatal mental health challenges are normal and experiencing them doesn’t make you a bad parent. You need to acknowledge your feelings and know when to seek help. By knowing these challenges are normal you can feel more comfortable to ask for help without guilt. If you or someone you know needs support Cova Psychology can provide compassionate, evidence based care for new and expecting parents. We are based in the Melbourne CBD. Our team takes a collaborative approach to perinatal mental health support.
Dr. Chris Coleiro
Chris is Clinical Psychologist and a co-director of Cova Psychology, located in the Melbourne CBD, where he provides supervision to psychologists whilst cultivating a supportive culture within the Cova team. Chris has worked extensively in the assessment and treatment of trauma, PTSD, and Borderline Personality Disorder. He combines a range of therapies in his approach including CBT, Schema Therapy, EMDR and IFS. Chris is a member of the Australian Psychological Society (APS), the APS college of Clinical Psychology, and of the Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprocessing Australian Association (EMDRAA).
