Find a Mental Health Professional for Perinatal & Postnatal Mental Health

About Perinatal & Postnatal Mental Health support

The perinatal period spans pregnancy through to the first year after birth, and it is a time of significant physical, emotional, and social change. While many people experience moments of joy and adjustment, one in five mothers and one in ten fathers experience a perinatal mental health condition such as antenatal or postnatal depression, anxiety, OCD, or PTSD related to birth. These experiences are common and are not a reflection of your love for your baby or your ability to be a good parent. Support during this time is important and effective. Midwives, maternal and child health nurses, GPs, obstetricians, and mental health professionals all have a role in perinatal mental health care. Psychological therapies including CBT, Interpersonal Therapy, and mother-infant or parent-infant work can help with adjustment and recovery. Medication, where indicated, can be discussed with a GP or psychiatrist with expertise in perinatal care. In Australia, PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia) operates a national helpline (1300 726 306) and provides information and support for families. Gidget Foundation Australia offers telehealth and in-person support for perinatal mental health. Medicare's Better Access initiative provides subsidised sessions, and some states and territories also have dedicated perinatal mental health units for more complex presentations.