Welcoming a new addition to the family is an exciting time for parents, family and friends, but for tens of thousands of expectant and new mothers each year, it is also extremely distressing.
Having depression and anxiety is not a normal part of having a baby, but sadly depression affects up to one in 10 women during pregnancy and one in seven women in the first year after childbirth, with anxiety estimated to be even more prevalent.
Postnatal Depression Awareness Week is 17 – 23 November and aims to raise awareness and reduce the stigma around perinatal mental illness. Beyondblue is urging women who are feeling excessively worried, overwhelmed, sad, isolated, out of control or panicky to speak up and seek help. Speaking up is the first step on the road to recovery, and through sharing your story you can also give other women the confidence they need to speak up too.
Beyondblue has launched its Just Speak Up website, an online community where new and expectant mothers can share their stories and support each other.
Locally, Beyond Baby Blues is a perinatal depression program support group in Robina that is offered free to mums-to-be or mums who have given birth in the last 12 months and are at risk of depression.
To get involved in Postnatal Depression Awareness Weak and the Just Speak Up campaign, visit the Just Speak Up website, download or order free resources online, or call the beyondblue support service on 1300 22 4636.
If you are experiencing postnatal mental illness, you are not alone. Visit justspeakup.com.au or call beyondblue on 1300 22 4636. To find out more about Beyond Baby Blues, visit their website or call 5562 0466.
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