New data reveals over two-thirds (70 per cent) of expectant and new parents do not have a support network, with one in five mothers and one in 10 fathers experiencing depression and anxiety.
The Perinatal Mental Health Support Finder has now launched to help parents explore options that align with their experiences and help them uncover their ‘village’.
Revesby’s Maria and Christian Polycarpou sadly had to terminate their pregnancy at 23 weeks due to medical issues.
Their daughter, Anastasia, was diagnosed with complicated heart issues and they were told their baby ‘wasn’t compatible with life’ which was heartbreaking.
Because Anastasia was over 20 weeks, she had to be born naturally and registered at birth (which also meant she would be a registered death).
Maria said they had no idea who to turn to for support until a friend suggested the Gidget Foundation and a clinician helped them through the loss.
Three months after Anastasia’s birth (and death), the couple fell pregnant with daughter Sofia who was born happy and healthy and is now nearly two years old.
“We also needed support with the second pregnancy as it was terrifying going to scans and fearing the worst might happen again,” Maria said.
“All new parents need help navigating a pregnancy for different reasons and the new support finder is very welcome and long overdue.”
Details: pmhweek.org.au.
Support to help new parent along their perinatal journey
OVER 125 expectant and new parents alongside leading perinatal specialists, have united in Perinatal Mental Health Week (November 12-18) to identify key issues to support more throughout their early parenting journey.