{
    "componentChunkName": "component---src-templates-post-js",
    "path": "/articles/Providing-individualised-and-person-centred-care/",
    "result": {"data":{"sanityArticle":{"title":"Providing individualised and person-centred care","_type":"article","datePublished":"14 February 2022","header":{"background":{"value":"#E1F9F7"},"headline":"Providing individualised and person-centred care","text":[{"_key":"7939d51e919f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"628ced11073a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal mental health care is most effective when there are clear, person-centred and collaborative discussions about referral pathways for management, treatment and follow-up."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a47e31b7462e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c151eeae7d0d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-7e468a4f94ea864f0ee5af8c3372145c41a97dde-5001x5001-png"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":null}},"content":[{"_key":"6bfc314448ce","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d4210752f41e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are a range of referral options for people experiencing perinatal mental health challenges, including counselling services, community-based and clinical care options like parent-infant mental health and parenting services."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"369ffd2d3df3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8d0854f0676c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"All expecting and new parents need and deserve access to mental health and wellbeing support during the perinatal period. Ideally, each parents’ community of care includes personal supports (e.g. family and friends) plus a range of healthcare providers supporting all aspects of mental health and wellbeing."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d17abb4f8701","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a5d2b68554570","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We’ve put together some practical strategies and tools to help you make effective referrals for expecting and new parents that you’re supporting."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","sidebarPosts":[{"title":"Encouraging people to share their experiences","_type":"article","slug":{"current":"encouraging-people-to-share-their-experiences"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-7065493e6fbcb3f89f4faa028852afccc0f6d9cf-5001x5001-png"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":"Mum talking to doctor"},"text":[{"_key":"d1450b38e01c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"621dda3a195f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"“Every care conversation with every new and expecting parent needs to include two critical questions: Are you OK? Are you safe?” "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"47abd1b0995e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ddb5274ce8ce","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Julie Borninkhof, PANDA CEO"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}}],"modules":[{"_key":"4e1783c24154","_type":"faqBlock","include":null,"title":"Referral and support options at a glance","noNumbers":true,"text":null,"questions":[{"question":[{"_key":"e3d4d5992abf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"645d6563012e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Counselling"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"62466cb47eae","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b30bec06e0d00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Psychologists, mental health social workers, psychiatrists, counsellors, fertility specialists, relationship therapists, helplines and online support services."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"a863658393db","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5907937b89080","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal medicine"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"b194577dfdc6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6643b53e6a380","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Doctors, psychiatrists, obstetricians, pharmacists and medication advice lines."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"31f56b0f9955","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f0e12daca3410","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Parent-infant support"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"cdbe3619e7a4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1cb7d17f602b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Hospital, midwives, child health nurses, social workers, parent-infant mental health teams, parent-infant units, child protective services, intensive family support services."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"5d0888e6733f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"85570c9993150","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Peer support"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"a1997bc1a763","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2f32cf3b66d60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Helplines, parent and playgroups, facilitated support groups, online moderated forums."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}]},{"_key":"5452caaf0fc3","_type":"faqBlock","include":null,"title":"Stepped care across perinatal mental health services","noNumbers":true,"text":[{"_key":"61d18ea10a58","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"23c2254b8ac70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Stepped perinatal mental health care spans a broad spectrum of support needs."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f50942a22e19","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fc6dd61a062b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"People’s support needs often change over time, and they may move between levels of care depending on their individual situation. People’s needs often span multiple levels of the stepped care model. For example, someone might benefit from peer support and self-care strategies during an inpatient admission for mental health."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bfc350400ede","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8f53faf54f5f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"By referring to (and working with) other integrated services that provide stepped care, you can be highly responsive to the mental health and support requirements of every person in your care."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f21549bed11c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d6e8a7b958eb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Below are some examples of perinatal mental health and wellbeing services you can refer to at every level of stepped care. Many health care providers and services work across multiple levels of care."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"questions":[{"question":[{"_key":"3754d56a8b7a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0b0dd404d13d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Step 1: Self-managed care, health promotion and prevention"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"89749cf5446f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"05d85f45f1720","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Community-based and online services like peer support, playgroups, perinatal mental health and wellbeing self-care and support person resources – including factsheets, websites and helplines."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"0c83a4b588b6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"45d0fecf27650","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Step 2: Low intensity and primary care support services"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"d18f083bed74","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9a9f1e95858e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Doctors, midwives, child health nurses, pharmacists, facilitated and peer-led support groups, digital mental health (e.g. online self-paced programs and apps), mental health helplines."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"bba0e1c7adba","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3fe5ee9942980","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Step 3: Moderate intensity support services"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"3afea3311291","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"49c455fcf4000","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal mental health clinicians and allied health, enhanced maternity and child health services, early parenting centres, intensive family support services."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"8e0fefa1341b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"90d0df563b6e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Step 4: High intensity support services"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"732960134620","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"533fbc07de8b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Specialist mental health services like perinatal psychiatry and parent-infant mental health teams, child protective services, healthcare provider-assisted digital mental health."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"350630d10af7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"98bcd293e1760","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Step 5: Acute care and specialist support services"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"34e3a2773e28","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ee11d2a61b900","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Inpatient services like parent-infant units, mother-baby units, mental health units, and multi-agency care."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b4b3fb0d2b91","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"22b0485d3c8f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA delivers stepped care across our services and is a key provider in the stepped care mental health service network across Australia."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8116b5d0cc5a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"834f5bd1bec00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA delivers stepped care across our services and is a key provider in the stepped-care mental health service network across Australia. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}]},{"_key":"454434f9e44d","_type":"freeText","include":null,"eyebrow":"A range of of supports can help","text":[{"_key":"0e7ca722824c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1deb2739c94b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"People often need different supports for their mental health. Some people may start by accessing a helpline, then see their healthcare provider for a mental health treatment referral, and access online peer support while they are waiting for their first appointment or an admission."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"60a0fd3736cc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b02a6d53266e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Other people start exploring supports online or self-manage their mental health for many months before accessing mental healthcare services."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"66b3068686b2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d1b8069003770","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"In all these scenarios, it’s vital that health care providers keep asking about wellbeing, exploring safety, and discussing preferred ways to manage mental health."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"background":null},{"_key":"1a581cbabb71","_type":"faqBlock","include":null,"title":"Encourage help seeking","noNumbers":true,"text":null,"questions":[{"question":[{"_key":"240a8135d2d4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c17a590a56ff","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Identify and address barriers"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"48f514097ed7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d29f4287a3af0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"People may feel reluctant to seek out or engage with supports and services for many reasons. Some people feel shame or fear. Others may be concerned about social or cultural stigma. Some may have had an adverse experience in the past or be uncomfortable with particular types of treatment. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3d6837d87bde","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"760c4cde31310","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"To help you start an open conversation, here is some language we use with callers that you might find useful:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"499f612bba51","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"94515d5f3ef00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"“How would you feel about talking to (a doctor/child health nurse/midwife/psychologist/psychiatrist/peer worker) about what you have shared with me today?”"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3df47458ab17","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5e81610df3740","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"“We often find that people want help but there’s something stopping them from following up a referral. I’m wondering if there’s anything about talking to the (name relevant health care provider) that concerns you?”"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7795b7012c5c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7a10fc4f548c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"“Is there anything you are concerned about sharing with the (name relevant health care provider)? What can we do to make the conversation feel a bit easier?\""}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b24ff4b3e912","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"39a5492cffe00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Try exploring with them what they imagine life might be like in the coming months if they don’t access additional help, and then ask them to imagine what life might be like if they do seek support."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"ff27598441c0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4ea47d2750940","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Help the person you’re supporting know what to expect"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"daa5f94176c1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4f8e302ca5ea0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Callers to the PANDA National Helpline often say that they feel nervous about sharing symptoms and concerns with their health care providers. Many people also mention that they forget things they wanted to say or ask in appointments, and worry they’ve missed their opportunity to access support."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"14300ed5c16a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3cca16188c960","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You can help expecting and new parents feel more confident they'll remember what they'd like to share - and ask - during appointments with other healthcare providers by exploring each person’s unique experiences and key concerns. You may like to help the person you’re supporting to create a list of key symptoms that will inform appropriate care options."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"252f3819be9f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ddd33e1057290","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you have used a screening measure as part of your assessment, give the person a copy of their results to share with other members of their care team."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"9310cae5e93b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"09e4a383460b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Follow up"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"8e9a99aaa95f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"85bdcfaa002e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are many reasons why referrals may not work out. Follow-up is important to ensure that any referrals you’ve made are appropriate and successful. Sometimes people in your care may need you (with consent) to make appointments for them and/or share information with the healthcare provider/s you’re referring to. This enables you to share your observations and advocate for the person. It’s also a trauma-informed approach to care, because it may save the person you are supporting from having to repeat their story to healthcare providers each time they access a new service."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}]},{"_key":"72b58c3dcfac","_type":"faqBlock","include":null,"title":"Finding personalised support","noNumbers":true,"text":[{"_key":"84a938f52cfb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4508128ae0050","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are many support options depending on a person’s concerns, circumstances and preferences. Inclusive care is especially important to people who are:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"eb0fdc32b3ac","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f86de959ec120","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"dc6b0af0aedd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e63cb5a9a9130","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Culturally and linguistically diverse"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bb78fad2470d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"248effc9eba60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Living with a disability"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b6cff97189e1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"107a65d6c7700","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"From a migrant, refugee or asylum seeker background"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"efbd1247cdd1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e3e8fcdecb220","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"LGBTQIAP+"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"questions":[{"question":[{"_key":"1e89304c80fd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ddcb08a960700","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Tips for providing inclusive and personalised care"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"59a11770f830","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6d6e96ac97df0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Ask the person you’re supporting how they feel about mental health care and treatment, and if they have any preferences about how they would like to be supported."}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1c07187f56e2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"97be2646a9360","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Consider things like accessibility, literacy and preferred language to inform where you make a referral."}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0db731d3af63","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3d1fcc79f40b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Discuss any concerns about mental health referral that the person you’re supporting has shared. For example, some people are very concerned about child removal or hospitalisation and these fears can become barriers to supportive care."}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4414211a8713","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c29ba9043d8d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Think outside your usual referral pathways: Is there a service you aren’t familiar with that may be of particular benefit to the person you’re supporting? Ensure referrals are as personalised as possible, for example an Aboriginal person may prefer to be referred to an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c48755672085","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"34d8afa4d39d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"By discussing options and offering choice, you empower the individual and family, and may increase the likelihood that they will access treatment that works for them."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}]},{"_key":"f72b03afd84c","_type":"freeText","include":null,"eyebrow":"How PANDA can help","text":[{"_key":"432d8496ad48","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a7de41c3845b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Share PANDA’s "},{"_key":"49b4856bdebc","_type":"span","marks":["9b977b5422cf"],"text":"Talking to Your Doctor’ resource"},{"_key":"ba2993f624c8","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" with people in your care."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"9b977b5422cf","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_id":"3e9170da-2e0e-427f-a832-e5b31624df14","_type":"article","_rev":"e9oiR2gkW2DFWuAPqnrG0m","_createdAt":"2022-02-14T08:41:12Z","_updatedAt":"2024-03-28T04:19:13Z","categories":[{"_key":"4b362e7d570b","_ref":"a4331950-09cf-4e89-9803-5127aa533bc7","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"e97e44188629","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"1e789ffcf782","_ref":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"reference"}],"content":[{"_key":"07ab5855d59f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"13d14b745218","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It's best to talk about it"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"072dc643cc26","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"67acb364f305","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re a new parent or expecting a baby, and you’re worried about how you’re feeling, then talking to your doctor can be a good place to start. Below we provide tips on finding a doctor, sharing your concerns and what to expect from a consultation."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e42fa248ecd7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"02c26121b73f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The doctor’s role"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"e40616d99ec5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"74a9061ef424","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are many different services and health professionals that can help. If you are concerned about yourself or your partner or loved one, a doctor (that is, a General Practitioner or GP) is often a good place to start. They should be able to give you non-judgemental support, assessment, diagnosis, and ongoing care and treatment. They can also refer you to specialists such as a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9a06c1026a02","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b1daffe9a386","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Finding the right doctor"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"4aa4b2bd4415","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d174f7739c5c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do you have a regular doctor with whom you can share your concerns? If not, it’s worth looking for a doctor with a special interest in mental health. Ask family and friends for recommendations of doctors who understand mental health, or ring local practices and ask about their doctors. We can help: call the PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline on 1300 726 306 and we will help you to find a doctor in your area."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b2c3c95b941e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7598b9b306cd","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Making an appointment"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"6e6e07ab72c3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7dae98646b34","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If possible, request a double appointment and let them know it’s about a possible mental health issue. Don’t hesitate to ask for an urgent appointment or cancellation. Mental health issues can be serious, and symptoms can change quickly (see below for what to do if you feel worse before the appointment). Ask for an interpreter if you need one. Many people prefer to talk about sensitive issues in their first language, even if they can speak some English"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"40eb43c26d8f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1536ab6a270b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Consider taking someone"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"c61251f6b827","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c0ba816a8c03","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Consider taking a trusted person with you to the appointment, like a partner, friend or family member . A common symptom of anxiety or depression is difficulty taking in or remembering information. A trusted person can take notes for you, and might help you to feel more confident about sharing your concerns."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"orange60","value":"#FFA688"},"headline":"Talking to your doctor","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Mum seeing doctor with baby","asset":{"_ref":"image-f12faa68ea2bd2a18594e7c59bdb785fb44d43a2-500x417-png","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"d757fe214ce4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d9b3853b7454","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Tips on finding a doctor, sharing your concerns and what to expect from a consultation."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"47c962839d97","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"f6d9d0db4055","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"148b115c894f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"95ae5c273ff70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re still not sure about sharing your thoughts or feelings with your doctor, it can help to talk with a loved one or friend first. You can also call the PANDA Helpline. Our counsellors are skilled at helping you to explore your feelings, and to practice aloud the things you want to tell your doctor."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"59c4cff19a3d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1a8177ac599b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Practice the conversation first"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"72490974baf0","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"effbc4dd9b95","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"877fbb2811ce0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s important to tell your doctor about any changes in your thoughts, feelings and behaviours since becoming an expecting or new parent. Remember, these things do not make you a bad parent, but are potential symptoms of a common, treatable health condition. Let the doctor know if you have felt this way and/or been diagnosed with depression, anxiety or another mental health condition before. It’s also important to tell the doctor if you have had previous thoughts of suicide, or if you have lost someone to suicide."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"92847b9f3fdf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e556c7ae5842","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What to tell your doctor"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"d70aa326f74c","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"afb1d1c51263","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5d702f25140b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor should be non-judgemental, respectful and supportive.. They should assess you by asking questions about your symptoms, your and your family’s mental health history, your physical health and lifestyle (e.g. exercise, sleep, use of alcohol or drugs), your living situation, major emotional or psychological experiences, and treatment preferences."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2bd7c207cd94","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"00465bc565fa0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"After assessment, your doctor should be able to provide a diagnosis (although sometimes more tests are needed before they can make a diagnosis) and a treatment plan. They should explain your different treatment options, and why they are referring you to any specialist services."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"334374aa9b9f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"73478b791f18","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What to expect"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"3311e258bd75","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"a5ba4ec70e4a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"91c17bbeb02a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You have the right to fully understand your diagnosis and recommended treatment. You could ask:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4bc3162dd3c5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1e674db35e500","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What are my options for treatment? Which do you think are best for me?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"29499fa2c097","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f88a2e215afc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What are possible side effects of any medications?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8c5c37f91fd5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ff7d9457d7b10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"How much better might I feel, and how soon?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"785afab243a2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"754e2b27ec420","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Who are you referring me to? What do they do? How much will it cost? If I have private health insurance, will it be covered? (also check your policy)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"52a13d009398","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9711d2285d470","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Are there other ways that I can care for myself?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1059035e92d4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f9cd51760cd20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Can you talk with my other health care providers about shared care? (e.g. obstetrician, midwife, Maternal and Child Health/Child and Family Health Nurse)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"77e4e12946dd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"01336c0ee6de0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor can refer you to services like counsellors, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers and occupational therapists. They might give you a mental health care plan, which gives you some Medicare rebates to help you access counselling. For a higher level of care, they might refer you to a Mother Baby Unit — a hospital unit where you stay with your baby — or to another hospital-based psychiatric service."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"5e39c53e4e16","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6e7d757729f3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Questions to ask"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"0fe6884d9fa5","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"a0f34745db53","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a2c2141ba0ce0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Not all doctors have the same experience, confidence or qualifications in supporting patients with mental health issues. If the first doctor you see doesn’t help you enough, please don’t give up. You have a right to get the support you need, to feel better and enjoy your parenting journey."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"11105b443a24","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d722bb40d5090","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Call the PANDA National Helpline any time: to find a doctor or other service, for supportive counselling, or to discuss other support options like playgroups or support groups. You can call for yourself or about someone else you are concerned about."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"31a628481730","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f1f0b7bb1fe4","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you don't get what you need"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"55f55b8dc810","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"27705a63f8eb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7dea9d64d2d30","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you need urgent help before your appointment, call emergency services on triple zero (000) or go to your local hospital emergency department. The symptoms and severity of mental illness can sometimes change quickly. Don’t hesitate to seek urgent help if needed."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5edf7645473e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"693b5731952c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You can call the PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline for support and ongoing counselling on 1300 726 306, Monday to Friday, 9am to 7.30pm AEST/ADST. You can call about yourself or someone else."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"00f3c1bfa15b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b740844eb25f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you need someone to talk with outside PANDA’s hours, call Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467, Suicide Line on 1300 651 251, or Lifeline on 131114."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"ee768dd29217","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e5933b44caca","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you feel worse"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"text":[{"_key":"c360ec98f5bf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"684a02e0b0a60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"People often forget things that they wanted to tell or ask their doctor during their appointment. It can be helpful to prepare by writing a list of your symptoms, concerns, and questions."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"title":"Prepare for the appointment"},{"_key":"5e8b1caa6593","_type":"fileCollection","files":[{"_key":"c5748ae691a4","_type":"download","background":{"title":"peach40","value":"#FFE4C9"},"cta":"Download","file":{"_type":"file","asset":{"_ref":"file-bec93bd9eb58ae8f35d03b5767093abeb1effd70-pdf","_type":"reference"}},"title":"Talking to your doctor"}],"title":"Factsheets"},{"_key":"f7e660518986","_type":"checklist","field":"content"},{"_key":"780165dc53a5","_type":"helpLine","field":"content"}],"relatedArticles":[{"_key":"d47730980313","_ref":"4af3f3dd-21d7-45c9-b150-2cae7e53c7e9","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"334300bb2126","_ref":"6db1ae16-57eb-45a1-9f7f-e53fd09a8427","_type":"reference"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"Tips on finding a doctor, sharing your concerns and what to expect from a consultation.","metaTitle":"Talking to your doctor","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-edcabb975680e1848598b04a6a7ca8809c9fe916-1200x630-png","_type":"reference"}}},"sidebarPosts":[{"_key":"03d97dabb92a","_ref":"a1329df5-57c4-454b-8c52-b34451c438ee","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"d1a03409be84","_ref":"50f65345-d46c-4cda-a886-b7bcc3567248","_type":"reference"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"talking-to-your-doctor"},"tags":[{"_key":"cbd98d59e44e","_ref":"2df7e53e-9ef7-4ed8-aabe-1623b28de6ec","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"31ba9b178809","_ref":"49993bd9-e417-4743-b155-591d0a496a77","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"05deaeda4ed0","_ref":"98c6d929-2d8d-4cbb-9cfe-13d53cdcb7ad","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Talking to your doctor","id":"-592aeba9-9c48-5c33-9b43-5b33c564b821","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"4f877d2f8eea899d6bff1d47cd41ccbd","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":165},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"talking-to-your-doctor"}}},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f85681263048","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bcf5a5f378a4","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Encourage expecting and new parents to complete "},{"_key":"43e02692c5a4","_type":"span","marks":["cc5769b910cd"],"text":"PANDA’s Mental Health Checklist."},{"_key":"ebc1b730f137","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" They can print the completed checklist and take it to their healthcare appointment."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"cc5769b910cd","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_id":"daf2d071-7838-4740-9046-ceea02bb539e","_type":"page","_rev":"YnHcRrfS97TenynEl53Hw7","_createdAt":"2022-03-26T05:53:52Z","_updatedAt":"2024-06-03T01:58:37Z","datePublished":"2022-03-26","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"headline":"Mental health checklist for expecting and new parents","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","asset":{"_ref":"image-8722a72369d7376531b62be2893e87bc63f60916-2500x1667-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"a082b012152f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f00eff1315270","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Our mental health checklist can help you to see if what you’re experiencing or observing in a loved one could be reason to seek help."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"9c8457648f51","_type":"checklist","field":"content"},{"_key":"d357a9cf76fd","_type":"freeText","text":[{"_key":"253abb45c8d6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"427ca182f643","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA's mental health checklist asks you questions based on possible symptoms of postnatal anxiety and/or depression. Experiencing these symptoms does not make you a bad parent, but could indicate that you need some support with your mental wellbeing."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"463fc8b84283","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5d5d3acdf957","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This checklist will not give you a diagnosis, only a health professional can provide this. Completing a checklist will help you to better understand what you are experiencing, and assist you to get help if needed."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"753786e649d3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d0a3376867ef","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Complete this checklist to see if what you’re experiencing could be a reason to seek help. The checklist will ask you about changes you have noticed in three different areas: your body and behaviour, your thoughts and feelings and your relationships."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"49b495512d5d","_type":"chatBotModule","field":"content"}],"showFeedbackForm":true,"slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"checklist"},"title":"Mental health checklist for expecting and new parents","id":"-55bbef1c-75fb-51e4-8ab8-46c9903bd318","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityPage","contentDigest":"2383324c54af42138b60eb476cbb4bd6","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":384},"parent":null},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fc08b2ad6d4a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d762eaf41115","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Use our "},{"_key":"1aa7cbf0869a","_type":"span","marks":["e5dd53e0743f"],"text":"website, factsheets and other print resources"},{"_key":"18c4524b0620","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" to educate expecting and new parents and their support people about perinatal mental health and wellbeing. PANDA resources are evidence-based, and informed by the lived experience of our PANDA Community Champions."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"e5dd53e0743f","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_id":"832225a7-4aeb-49fc-bd68-7296172e2d82","_type":"postIndex","_rev":"dpQ2IysUm09sCEUZjUOSAC","_createdAt":"2022-02-13T23:52:16Z","_updatedAt":"2023-12-19T03:33:45Z","categoryMenu":[{"_key":"dccbb3eab370","_ref":"a4331950-09cf-4e89-9803-5127aa533bc7","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"96f29b0b2388","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"cb83fb24179b","_ref":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"e8316ab3a714","_ref":"f72ed5fd-4128-46cf-b3ca-bdf1ed7b9837","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"d5ba05979db3","_ref":"f3a1efdb-0e5d-4871-83d7-1d7f66ee6107","_type":"reference"}],"header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"brightTeal60","value":"#86DECF"},"headline":"PANDA Articles and information","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","asset":{"_ref":"image-31544bad9e7c38876638fe53c51e77cf89d91356-2500x1800-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"d19d16ca1059","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f472eef6d43a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Explore our broad range of perinatal mental health and wellbeing information."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"articles"},"tagMenu":[{"_key":"001156483ae6","_ref":"98c6d929-2d8d-4cbb-9cfe-13d53cdcb7ad","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"dc28e7a4436f","_ref":"49993bd9-e417-4743-b155-591d0a496a77","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"0bae42384121","_ref":"2df7e53e-9ef7-4ed8-aabe-1623b28de6ec","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"35a0d4201305","_ref":"e7d8ddd8-75df-47bd-aa02-f873eb150d9a","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"bdb585ac5bed","_ref":"86acc926-5328-468e-8bdd-8292f51fa04e","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"d109c2936202","_ref":"93c6a6d9-0f5a-45ab-a76e-08706724c63d","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"bcb7bcfe6ca8","_ref":"9b2f81d1-948b-4eef-995c-0e856620264d","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"e7ea7a0ab429","_ref":"fbeb1322-1a7e-4da2-8713-58f8acaa0a12","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"40f981cb0324","_ref":"fc948820-5710-4e72-a013-628ef7133a93","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Articles","id":"-48178aa1-dfd9-5cdf-9251-4482d8ad8278","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityPostIndex","contentDigest":"2d34bda06de6545f9fd06787912b8552","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":393},"parent":null},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fd1ffa4dcab6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7dbe1668779f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Share real life stories from expecting and new parents, written by PANDA’s community."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3a63b6cf9b69","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0a7c69c7aed7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Call the PANDA Helpline: We offer a free "},{"_key":"5c0ebb4a9375","_type":"span","marks":["dfabd7b2280c"],"text":"Perinatal Mental Health Secondary Consultation"},{"_key":"faf3bf1e5a37","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" service for Australian health care providers."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"dfabd7b2280c","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://panda.org.au/articles/secondary-consultation-service-support-for-health-professionals/"}],"style":"normal"}],"background":null},{"_key":"fd3dd98ee346","_type":"fileCollection","include":null,"title":"Download the tip sheet","files":[{"title":"Providing individualised and person-centred care","file":{"asset":{"url":"https://cdn.sanity.io/files/2eln2asx/production/c59630f87a06166da91f570ba03b2ce1491439e3.pdf"}},"cta":null,"background":{"value":"#FFE4C9"}}]},{"_key":"ebec1e22c883","_type":"quote","quote":"My GP was very empathetic. I was very tearful and exhausted and so grateful that I finally had confided in someone.","attribution":"Alison"},{"_key":"47efb58e6cdf","_type":"articleCollection","include":null,"eyebrow":"Articles","title":null,"population":null,"posts":[],"background":null,"categoryOrTag":null}],"relatedArticles":[{"title":"Talking to your doctor","_type":"article","slug":{"current":"talking-to-your-doctor"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-f12faa68ea2bd2a18594e7c59bdb785fb44d43a2-500x417-png"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":"Mum seeing doctor with baby"},"text":[{"_key":"d757fe214ce4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d9b3853b7454","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Tips on finding a doctor, sharing your concerns and what to expect from a consultation."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}},{"title":"Encouraging people to share their experiences","_type":"article","slug":{"current":"encouraging-people-to-share-their-experiences"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-7065493e6fbcb3f89f4faa028852afccc0f6d9cf-5001x5001-png"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":"Mum talking to doctor"},"text":[{"_key":"d1450b38e01c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"621dda3a195f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"“Every care conversation with every new and expecting parent needs to include two critical questions: Are you OK? Are you safe?” "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"47abd1b0995e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ddb5274ce8ce","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Julie Borninkhof, PANDA CEO"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}},{"title":"Perinatal support options for individuals and families","_type":"article","slug":{"current":"Perinatal-support-options-for-individuals-and-families"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-5a57b7e5dec69f3ee6ef3844abe922c67a17f30b-3240x3240-png"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":null},"text":[{"_key":"b24fce467acb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"aad21cc337f50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Effective perinatal mental health care can make a real difference during a time of big changes."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}}],"showFeedbackForm":true,"seo":{"metaTitle":"Providing individualised and person-centred care","metaDescription":"There are many support options depending on a person’s concerns, circumstances and preferences. ","socialImage":{"asset":{"_id":"image-776f7b7b4c65e3cef25ce69f2e1bea1f9cfbda5d-1200x630-png"}}}}},"pageContext":{"slug":"Providing-individualised-and-person-centred-care","isArticle":true,"lastMod":"2023-12-18"}},
    "staticQueryHashes": ["2217905065","3363036388","3383307213","3769966569"]}