What is Perinatal Mental Health?
Motherhood, Parenting, Pregnancy, Postpartum, Miscarriage, and Birth Trauma.
1 in 5 mums and 1 in 10 dads experience perinatal anxiety or depression. This can develop at any time from pregnancy and beyond 12 months. Postpartum is forever.
Signs of perinatal anxiety and depression
*List from SANE Australia
- persistent, generalised worry, often focused on fears for the health or wellbeing of the baby
- the development of obsessive or compulsive behaviours
- abrupt mood swings, or feeling constantly sad, low, or crying for no obvious reason
- having little or no interest in all the normal things that bring joy
- withdrawing from friends and family
- finding it difficult to focus, concentrate or remember
- having thoughts of death or suicide
- increased sensitivity to noise or touch
- changes in appetite: under or overeating
- sleep problems unrelated to the baby’s needs
- loss of confidence and lowered self-esteem
- fear of being alone with baby
- intrusive thoughts of harm to yourself or baby
- increased alcohol or drug use
- agitation
- frustration
- outbursts of anger or rage
- feelings of shame or guilt
Causes
There is no single cause and there are a number of risk factors such as hormonal changes, birth trauma, stress, isolation, and previous history of mental health struggles.
Seeking Support
It's a vulnerable place to be when struggling with parenthood and your mental health. Recognising, seeking, and accepting help is an important part of supporting your mental health and wellbeing. Talking with a trusted mental health professional who 'gets it' can make a world of difference. Book a counselling session with Crystal below.