A Herald Promotional Feature:
Early detection key to improving mental health for new mums and dads
Perinatal Depression and Anxiety (PNDA) Awareness Week will run from 15 to 21 November this year and seeks to raise awareness of perinatal depression and anxiety in Australia.
The term perinatal refers to the period from conception to one year after birth, but it’s important parents understand that “the whole pregnancy” is also a time of risk for mental health conditions.
1 in 7 new mums and up to 1 in 10 new dads are likely to experience postnatal depression, up to 1 in 10 expectant mums and 1 in 20 expectant dads struggle with depression during pregnancy.
It is thought that the rate of anxiety across this whole period is just as high, and can be just as severe. Therefore it is important for new and expectant parents to be aware that this period carries a higher risk for anxiety, as well as depression.
At Rokeby GP in Subiaco, the doctors support the National Perinatal Depression Initiative, which aims to improve the prevention and early detection of antenatal and postnatal disorders, provide better care, support and treatment for expectant and new mothers experiencing perinatal disorders.
Rokeby GP doctors have special training developed by beyondblue in detecting and managing mental health during pregnancy and beyond. The doctors have developed a “Better Beginnings” program for all expectant and new mothers which helps to identify women at risk of developing these disorders. The doctors believe that it is important to understand these conditions so that mothers, family or friends can recognise the signs and seek help earlier rather than later.
If you or someone you care about needs help please contact the reception staff at Rokeby GP who will help you to make the correct appointment that meets your needs. To read about beyondblue Ambassador Kylie Brown’s personal story, visit http://www.beyondblue.org.au
Rokeby GP
1/142 Rokeby Road Subiaco | 9381 4880
Email: info@rokebygp.com.au
Web: http://www.rokebygp.com.au
Perth Voice Interactive 
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