We Need to Talk About Postpartum Mental Health

Did you know that 1 in 5 mothers, and 1 in 10 fathers will experience perinatal depression and anxiety? With staggering statistics like this, it’s never been more important to have conversations about postpartum mental health.

Baby Blues

After the birth of their baby, up to 80% of new Mamas will experience the postpartum ‘Baby Blues’ – typically between days 3-10 after welcoming their baby earth-side. During this time, women may feel a range of emotional ups and downs and mood swings. They may be more teary than usual, feel exhausted and overwhelmed. This is typically thought to be caused by the massive hormonal shifts that take place in our bodies after pregnancy and birth, and with support, love and care it tends to resolve on its own.

The Baby Blues is not the same as postnatal depression. But it IS important to know what to expect, and how to differentiate between the Baby Blues and warning signs of other postpartum mental health disorders.

Postnatal Depression and Anxiety (PNDA)

Postnatal Depression and Anxiety are serious conditions that affect all facets of our health, physical and mental. Following the birth of their baby, women are generally engaged with the health system in many ways. However, sadly postpartum mental health issues often go under the radar and are not easily picked up by healthcare providers. It’s also important to note that these conditions aren’t exclusive to women, and that men can also be affected by postpartum mental health issues.

Here in Australia, the Gidget Foundation is working hard to raise awareness of perinatal mood disorders, including PNDA. Their website provides a wealth of information for new parents. They also have great support networks and healthcare providers.

Here are some of the signs of PNDA they have put together on their website: