Anxiety, Depression, PTSD and more...
Stress, Distress, Anxiety, Depression
Why perinatal support matters
In the early days of parenthood, small acts of care make a big difference and early intervention is critical. Having a baby is a major milestone where most parents share stories about struggling with self esteem, shifts in identify and fear of the unknown. Its ok to not be ok - and there is always a way out even though it feels dark at times.
1. Sleep Deprivation Impairs Emotional Regulation and Increases Mental Health Risk
Sleep deprivation in new parents is linked to increased rates of postnatal depression and anxiety, impaired decision-making, and reduced coping ability. The brain’s prefrontal cortex—the area responsible for reasoning and emotion regulation—is significantly affected by chronic sleep loss, making parents more vulnerable to emotional overwhelm and burnout.
Source: Walker, M. P. (2009). The role of sleep in emotional brain function. *The Lancet Neurology, 8*(6), 547–558. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1474-4422(09)70122-3)
2. Social Isolation is a Leading Risk Factor for Postnatal Depression
A lack of emotional and practical support increases the risk of postnatal depression—with studies consistently showing that social connection and hands-on help reduce symptoms and improve maternal-infant bonding. Migrant families and those without extended support are especially at risk.
Source: Dennis CL, Letourneau N. “Global and Relationship-Specific Perceptions of Support and Postpartum Depression.” Psychiatric Services (2007)
3. Hormonal Shifts Heighten Emotional Sensitivity
After childbirth, there is a sharp drop in estrogen and progesterone—hormones that help regulate mood. Combined with the pressures of caregiving and identity shift, this creates a window of emotional vulnerability. Early support helps buffer against mood swings, anxiety, and relationship stress.
Source: Bloch M et al. “Effects of Gonadal Steroids in Women with a History of Postpartum Depression.” American Journal of Psychiatry (2003)
4. Early Intervention Prevents Escalation
Evidence shows that low-level, practical support—such as help with household tasks, infant care, and emotional check-ins—can significantly reduce the need for medical or crisis intervention later. Early intervention is not just compassionate—it’s cost-effective and life-enhancing.
Source: National Perinatal Mental Health Strategy (Australia, 2023) Royal College of Psychiatrists UK Perinatal Guidelines
Help is available - don't struggle alone
What am I entitled to? Your GP or psychiatrist/paediatrician can refer you for ten individual and ten group allied mental health sessions under your mental health care plan. After the sixth session, you will be required to return to your GP or psychiatrist/ paediatrician for a review of your progress to date. Mental health sessions may comprise either psychological assessment and therapy by a clinical psychologist or focussed psychological strategies by an allied mental health professional. A rebate is provided by Medicare for these sessions, although you may also have to pay a gap fee. In exceptional circumstances, dependent on your health care needs, additional sessions may be provided under Medicare. To access this you will need to return to your GP or psychiatrist/paediatrician who will review your progress to date and current status. They will take into account the written report received from the allied mental health professional to obtain a new referral. You may therefore access a maximum of ten individual and ten group services per calendar year – with additional sessions in exceptional circumstances. At this time, a review of your GP mental health care plan may also be undertaken. Psychological treatments can also be obtained through direct payment to the provider, and if you have private health insurance you may be eligible for a rebate.
Mental health care and Medicare, Australia Here is a government resource to provide information about the many options available to help you - don't struggle alone.
HealthDirect - free Australian health advice you can count on. This government website has a directory of resources to help you - don't struggle alone.
A mental health treatment plan lets you claim up to 10 individual and 10 group sessions with a mental health professional each calendar year (t&c apply). See this website for more information.
Free Support
There are many organisations that offer support - you don't need to do this alone. For example, Beyond Blue talks about a free mental health coach:
