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    "result": {"data":{"sanityArticle":{"title":"Getting help: Support during pregnancy","_type":"article","datePublished":"14 February 2022","header":{"background":{"value":"#FFD29D"},"headline":"Getting support during pregnancy","text":[{"_key":"32120c45f1e8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1bff0ff6e40d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"During pregnancy, specialist support is available for your mental health and wellbeing."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-80f2f46689cf7ccadf7102c97e6baa15bcdf420f-3334x3334-png"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":"Pregnant mum looking uneasy"}},"content":[{"_key":"783c7fb38d5d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5299b5f01bf40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you or your partner are pregnant and struggling with the transition to parenthood, it’s a good idea to chat to someone. If you’re having a tricky time adjusting to the many changes of pregnancy, talking to a loved one or a trusted health professional can help."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"37acf696c656","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7110f0089f31","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s normal to feel stressed and uncertain during pregnancy. There are so many changes you may be adjusting to, such as physical and hormonal changes, emotional shifts, plus major adjustments to relationships, work and social life. If your feelings are worrying you or affecting your ability to function in daily life, you may be experiencing symptoms of antenatal anxiety or depression. This is nothing to be ashamed of. Antenatal mental health concerns are common."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bb9ee733b0ac","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fb9ab95e702e","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Getting some support now means you can start to feel better."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c1db1c18abae","_type":"quote","quote":"Don’t be afraid or ashamed to reach out for the help you need - the help is there. You’ll get better, you’ll find yourself again, and you’ll feel more love for your tiny human than you could ever imagine is possible."},{"_key":"cb6483440c81","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4031bfdd6a840","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"62e015f6ea54","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c61df735fc9c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Anxiety and depression during pregnancy: Everyone is different"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"d8f1b1f270de","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4a5be38d04150","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We know everyone experiences antenatal anxiety and depression differently.  The way it affects you can depend on a range of factors."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f4c4d2f8bf74","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dae26e1746490","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your own genetics and unique emotional, mental and physical traits may play a part, plus external factors like your:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ef335c58448c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e2be7535719c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"General health and wellbeing during pregnancy."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"119256779461","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7e755e041f3e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Own experience of being parented when you were a child."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"383abea34c0a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a22b0dd8221f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Relationships"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c8c9b76e33d1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4100fa320c3e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Stressful life situations can have an impact too."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"171fd703261d","_type":"quote","quote":"I started feeling very sad – lonely and anxious too. Nothing like I had been expecting to feel just before the arrival of our baby."},{"_key":"17ea03140153","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"114b12d528720","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"4e02ed221c1e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5b5cd30f40e8","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Seeking advice"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"dda1010eeaa4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c90e3d034d9e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re an expecting parent worried about your emotional and mental wellbeing, it’s important to seek support from a trusted health professional."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"aa4d68f4f898","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c2d40d889def","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We recommend you see your doctor first, but it’s also a great idea to speak with other health professionals like your midwife or obstetrician for information and advice."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f2c0d018b53d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"53e474a79ee1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor can help you understand what’s happening and discuss the best treatment options for you. These might include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e1d5c03cc820","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f8c6de94cdec0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Counselling."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f2887c445bba","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b7a1eb05d7160","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Self-care strategies."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e3258799de00","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"789ec1f9291c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Medication."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"96a25462ef95","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f5e52ad6b9770","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Peer supports (e.g. "},{"_key":"0db949df7a51","_type":"span","marks":["b231bd88f4ec"],"text":"virtual courses and peer groups"},{"_key":"f284ddb573f7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":") "}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"b231bd88f4ec","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://peachtree.org.au/onlinegroups/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a329a334df0c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"210084c57d320","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Information and access to perinatal mental health resources. (linkto PANDA resources page, or page with Mumspace, Mum2BMoodBooster etc on it)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3d514414615e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6ab8529421310","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re experiencing moderate to severe symptoms of antenatal anxiety and depression, your antenatal care team may also refer you to a mental health service based at your maternity hospital."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"be3b1375aeb6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bcf640acbd300","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s also important for your doctor to rule out the possibility of any other physical conditions. Some issues which may contribute to feelings of depression, anxiety, low energy or lack of motivation include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"affb51de5230","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cf2a39f2f285","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Low iron and vitamin deficiencies"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ed0c8a6be45f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c21e0681d69d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Thyroid problems"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e6f0e00b5d0b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d55056f2dff7","_type":"span","marks":["0f3e52e7f989"],"text":"Gestational diabetes"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"0f3e52e7f989","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/about-diabetes/gestational-diabetes/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4213ef361edf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8036b6bda24b","_type":"span","marks":["32038eed04fb"],"text":"Hyperemesis"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"32038eed04fb","_type":"link","linkType":"external","url":"https://www.hyperemesisaustralia.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2d19ca2c8061","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"44dafdf17aa50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Distressing or overwhelming thoughts and feelings can resolve if identified and treated. "},{"_key":"8c95aaf5a3e8","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Please remember that if you don’t feel heard by your health professional or you’re not satisfied with the advice and treatment you receive, it’s always worth seeking a second opinion."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"231808187a51","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8d6ba4da2f85","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re in any doubt, call the PANDA National Helpline. Our telephone counsellors will listen carefully to your concerns and explore different care pathways with you, including additional referral options if you need them."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"579a396a1cd2","_type":"quote","quote":"My advice to anyone in this position, is to seek help, don't suffer alone."},{"_key":"0de2a1499550","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8f953c1ea6dd0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"67f75b195f30","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"aeac3a0ba4bb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Concerned about medication? Try to be as informed as possible."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"daaef8bcd666","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a2758845ac360","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some people feel concerned or fearful about taking medications for mental health, like anti-anxiety medications or antidepressants. It’s natural to have concerns about possible side effects for you and your unborn baby. People may also feel uncertain or think that there’s something wrong or shameful about taking medication for mental health due to misconceptions."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fe8828ab4784","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2d69e7bfb0630","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2d0bd06ba7d3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7f9656e9bd220","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes there’s stigma about taking medications for mental health as well. Media, friends, family,or even your own beliefs can make you think that somehow you should be able to cope without medication. You may also be sitting with stigma about medications for mental health that come from your background and culture. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"49dbfbd77f89","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d168e619cd06","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Stigma is judging others or yourself as though there’s something wrong withtaking medication to feel better – when really there is absolutely nothing to hide or be ashamed of."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2c32c49d0b10","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"eb71a7756241","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s normal to feel uneasy though – you want the best for yourself and your bub. We encourage you to get as much information as possible about any medication that’s being recommended to you. It’s important this information comes from a trusted professional source who has experience with medications for mental health, like your doctor or obstetrician."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ce3b2b50ed57","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1746fc6147b5","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Many of our Helpline callers report feeling like medications were life-changing for them during the perinatal period."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d5ae8b8c5a0d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3d799e716f56","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Expert advice on medication use in the perinatal period can also be obtained from Medications Information Helplines which are available in each state. We discourage you from seeking information about medications from unreliable sources on the internet."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"98ab31affd4c","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","document":{"_id":"4af3f3dd-21d7-45c9-b150-2cae7e53c7e9","_type":"article","_rev":"28Ey2N6aiyTS8vMpxWQDQF","_createdAt":"2022-02-14T08:25:19Z","_updatedAt":"2023-12-18T00:01:32Z","categories":[{"_id":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"category","_rev":"aA1fTfkzTKX28O3lLBjb5S","_createdAt":"2022-01-20T23:33:56Z","_updatedAt":"2022-02-24T07:43:57Z","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"new-parent"},"title":"New parent","id":"-2be506a5-df12-5306-ab62-d66056112f83","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityCategory","contentDigest":"48882a52cb4cba1ead286cefb3df3082","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":202},"parent":null},{"_id":"a4331950-09cf-4e89-9803-5127aa533bc7","_type":"category","_rev":"J8L8rF191oCLSDWZ0qVOQD","_createdAt":"2022-01-20T23:33:31Z","_updatedAt":"2022-01-20T23:35:53Z","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"expecting-a-baby"},"title":"Expecting a baby","id":"-9446b37b-ec7b-5141-8ec5-d2a370b76d8c","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityCategory","contentDigest":"838e26ea742dde0b36099af858955396","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":200},"parent":null},{"_id":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"category","_rev":"UofamAmpsKiKesBqe1m2Db","_createdAt":"2022-01-20T23:33:44Z","_updatedAt":"2022-02-24T00:51:54Z","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"growing-families"},"title":"Growing families","id":"-e26a686d-ea4d-59e6-b4c2-f87f52aa530d","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityCategory","contentDigest":"fda3fed0067357b0d2b8d142e89bceba","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":199},"parent":null}],"category":{"_id":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"category","_rev":"aA1fTfkzTKX28O3lLBjb5S","_createdAt":"2022-01-20T23:33:56Z","_updatedAt":"2022-02-24T07:43:57Z","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"new-parent"},"title":"New parent","id":"-2be506a5-df12-5306-ab62-d66056112f83","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityCategory","contentDigest":"48882a52cb4cba1ead286cefb3df3082","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":202},"parent":null},"content":[{"_key":"7a71d9fa8734","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"90db8d4c3ea90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you’re pregnant or caring for a new baby, you may need to take medications to treat a range of conditions, from your physical to mental health. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"99b76ce6b462","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"22651dda1cf6","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Medication for nausea and gestational diabetes is common during pregnancy. Many new mums take medication during birth recovery and to support lactation if they’re breastfeeding."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7460b15f7e56","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"73ef8bff22b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes, you may need to take medication for your mental health as well. One of your health professionals (eg your doctor, obstetrician, psychologist or psychiatrist) may have recommended that you consider taking medication to treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, or another mental health concern. It’s natural to have questions."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f9dc9e8e84d1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"37b947fe2f7e","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You may be wondering about side effects from medication, either for yourself or your baby. This is a common concern during pregnancy and for parents who are breastfeeding."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0f1d0c1526d8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f8d1d4c3674f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Maybe you’ve never taken medication for your mental health before, or not had a positive experience previously. There may also be stigma (negative associations) with medications for mental health in your social circle or culture."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a7ab888df22a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6acb42e1011b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Often it’s seen as perfectly acceptable to take medications for a physical condition, like a headache or diabetes, but there are still some taboos around treating mental health with medication. This needs to change – taking care of your mental health is just as important as treating any physical health conditions."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f354a1c56bdb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"748c70d508b1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Untreated mental health can be a risk to you and your baby. It’s incredibly hard to manage parenting when you’re also trying to cope with changes to your mental health that are affecting your daily function."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ac12e93faf77","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"41517f83d224","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are a range of treatment options available for mental health, including counselling and medication. We know from decades of research that there are many medications used to treat mental health during pregnancy and after having a baby that are safe to take. Certain medications have a low risk profile in terms of transmission (either to your unborn baby, or via breastmilk transfer)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a4b1804c1d4b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a2413019953e0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"We do not provide medication advice on the PANDA Helpline – but we do provide a space for you to talk through your options, thoughts, and feelings about taking medication."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1be5af53df38","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"252930a7a01c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We can also help you link to services that provide advice about medication use during pregnancy and after your baby is born. We encourage you to talk to your doctor for information and advice about medication. Some specialist medication advice services are also listed at the bottom of this page."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c575dddeddb9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d187761bb737","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Being informed about medications is essential – it’s important you feel confident and comfortable about any medication you are taking."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"73a89a2c0445","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cefcbd8bf986","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Medication is a broad term that encompasses a whole range of substances, not just medicine that you swallow."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fa5d3a9b83cc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f352b80dd872","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Medication can take the form of:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"99413cb14e12","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"689d02872d880","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Tablets and capsules, either available over the counter or by prescription."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"688a8ada9d5d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a3058709fce20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Liquid medication, either ingested or administered via injection (eg, an iron infusion at your doctor, or medication to induce labour)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"812cc1a471fa","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"41b2cadc89ac0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Inhalants, like nasal sprays or asthma medication."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f09f3d948da0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"85f93a3931720","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Ointments or patches you apply to your skin."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"31758210aeb5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b5aca75605c60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Suppositories you insert in your body."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"06dc7208fa4f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4456468d759e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Vitamins and supplements."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"32d64fb8bc1a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e76b4a8dd0bc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Herbal preparations, including tinctures and teas."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"29027f541ad8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ece0c15f3c070","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor or local pharmacist can provide you with information about medication use for yourself and your baby. You can also request a referral from your doctor for a home medicines review. This is a free service."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"042661870aaf","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/home-medicines-review"},"style":"arrow","text":"Home medicines review"},{"_key":"65cb3f3dd93b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d0de40d0314e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c402ebfae3e2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0b633db9c8200","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor will refer you to a local accredited pharmacist to discuss your use of any prescription medicines, over the counter medication, and vitamins and supplements."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7f89f4449abd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5c84935e2404","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The pharmacist will:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a7edeb61c76e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"01643f531ff70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Answer any questions you have"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e923a67a385e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"943eb4f8eee70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Check that you are using medicines correctly (eg, dosage and time of day, storage)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9e4dde2dc3ca","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"213b9e1bec2a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"May recommend changes to your medication"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2cd3d07d3ff4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"71983885c8a40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Provide a report to your GP"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f52f70bc11b9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8fae93b6e4920","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You doctor will then create a personalised Medication Management Plan for you. You’ll receive a copy of your plan to share with any health professionals who are caring for you. 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Excludes public holidays."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"91f3d6e271e9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"50507352edf00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Victoria"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"a16cb97ea319","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"6d6715c6f8ee","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"20f1ecd6031c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This medication advice helpline is provided by the King Edward Memorial Hospital. This service gives information and advice to parents about medication use during the perinatal period."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"42b29997d4e8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3398af13211d0","_type":"span","marks":["05f8886aadf9"],"text":"Obstetric Medicines Information Service"}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"05f8886aadf9","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.kemh.health.wa.gov.au/~/media/HSPs/NMHS/Hospitals/WNHS/Documents/Patients-resources/Medicines-information-in-pregnancy-and-breastfeeding-helpline.pdf"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"541103e71f7b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a3a6210cebca0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Phone: 08 9340 2723 "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"00cab4142b70","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"88c6eded41620","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Available 8:30am – 5pm, Monday to Friday."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"6c608d53304e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"16280fc7163d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Western Australia"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"text":[{"_key":"303f0bfbbff0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"45cf16bfd3a80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are also specialist medication advice lines you can call for information and advice on medication use during pregnancy and after you’ve had your baby:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"a9c961cc881a","_type":"checklist","field":"content"},{"_key":"6cf8cab950c9","_type":"storyCollection","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"eyebrow":"Stories","population":"latest"}],"relatedArticles":[{"_id":"e3e4eb2d-29b8-4375-982d-1acc2d22b0c2","_type":"article","_rev":"euacLC0mXPhoRWtm8wIURq","_createdAt":"2022-02-14T08:19:50Z","_updatedAt":"2023-09-18T00:51:44Z","categories":[{"_id":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"category","_rev":"aA1fTfkzTKX28O3lLBjb5S","_createdAt":"2022-01-20T23:33:56Z","_updatedAt":"2022-02-24T07:43:57Z","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"new-parent"},"title":"New parent","id":"-2be506a5-df12-5306-ab62-d66056112f83","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityCategory","contentDigest":"48882a52cb4cba1ead286cefb3df3082","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":202},"parent":null},{"_id":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"category","_rev":"UofamAmpsKiKesBqe1m2Db","_createdAt":"2022-01-20T23:33:44Z","_updatedAt":"2022-02-24T00:51:54Z","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"growing-families"},"title":"Growing families","id":"-e26a686d-ea4d-59e6-b4c2-f87f52aa530d","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityCategory","contentDigest":"fda3fed0067357b0d2b8d142e89bceba","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":199},"parent":null}],"category":{"_id":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"category","_rev":"aA1fTfkzTKX28O3lLBjb5S","_createdAt":"2022-01-20T23:33:56Z","_updatedAt":"2022-02-24T07:43:57Z","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"new-parent"},"title":"New parent","id":"-2be506a5-df12-5306-ab62-d66056112f83","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityCategory","contentDigest":"48882a52cb4cba1ead286cefb3df3082","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":202},"parent":null},"content":[{"_key":"b21b73926952","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b7a83bb12a970","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes the challenges of being a new parent leave you feeling exhausted. Many new parents experience some trouble adjusting to parenthood. Yet a big dip in your mental health at this time can seriously affect your ability to function in daily life and to look after yourself and your baby."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d260272dba1f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3931e5b5b6f6","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If your thoughts and feelings are worrying you, affecting your daily function or stopping you from enjoying life, you may be experiencing symptoms of postnatal anxiety or depression. This is nothing to be ashamed of, as postnatal mental health concerns are common."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d41528396204","_type":"quote","attribution":"Sam, TAS","quote":"You’re not a burden. Everyone deserves help. It doesn’t matter how minor or major you think things are. Everyone deserves it. So take help if it’s there. 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Some people experience mild postnatal anxiety or depression, while others have more severe symptoms including postnatal psychosis (link). No matter how unwell you feel, postnatal mental health concerns can affect your enjoyment of being a new parent, your bond with your baby and your ability to function in daily life."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"00e376a7e677","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"293382cf70e3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You don’t have to manage everything alone though. The sooner you seek help by talking to someone, the quicker you can begin treatment and start feeling better."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b33d8c811b66","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5b0ceadade0d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The mild to severe range of postnatal anxiety and depression symptoms means there is no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health recovery. 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You’re the expert on your own life, and your care team will consult you about what might work best for you.\n"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"7d930a93e882","_type":"freeText","text":[{"_key":"0393619de94d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a0c2bbd707d80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Seeking support"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"857f1bfe5fda","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ef834f00d02e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re a new parent worried about your emotional and mental wellbeing, it’s important to seek support from a trusted health professional."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"95e216b22d7b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9d2baa334e99","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We recommend you see your doctor first, but it’s also a great idea to speak with other health professionals like your maternal and child health nurse for information and advice."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"73990fc41004","_type":"quote","attribution":"Natasha, WA","quote":"Asking for help had been so hard for me to do. But once I let go of that need to be perfect and in control and asked for help, I was actually able to take back control of my life."},{"_key":"17f34ad7fe3c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6723ca2ba2d10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor can help you "},{"_key":"be525a6bc55b","_type":"span","marks":["c30ca9fb41e4"],"text":"understand"},{"_key":"f0780d546363","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" what’s happening and discuss the best treatment options for you. 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Low iron, vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems are some issues may contribute to feelings of depression, anxiety, low energy or lack of motivation. Worrisome thoughts and feelings can resolve if identified and treated."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ae2aa8f43002","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a17b902477a1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Please remember that if you don’t feel heard by your health professional or you’re not satisfied with the advice and treatment you receive, it’s always worth seeking a second opinion."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a8a11b336c98","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c0ce9e7f91b7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re in any doubt, call the PANDA National Helpline. Our telephone counsellors will listen carefully to your concerns and explore pathways to care with you, including additional referral options if you need them."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"508f0e7c96f7","_type":"freeText","background":{"title":"beige100","value":"#EDE8E4"},"text":[{"_key":"6a9bf057eae7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0afbf0d184810","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Concerned about medication? Try to be as informed as possible."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"e7ed27c76807","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"82605e3f9c610","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some people feel concerned or fearful about taking medications for mental health, like anti-anxiety meds or antidepressants. It’s natural to have concerns about possible side effects and how long you might need to take medication. People may also feel uncertain or think that there’s something wrong or shameful about taking medication for mental health due to misconceptions and stigma."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f6944a299f7f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d657befa1a13","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Stigma is judging others or yourself as though there’s something wrong with taking medication to feel better – when really there is absolutely nothing to hide or be ashamed of.Sometimes there’s stigma about taking medications for mental health as well, from friends, family, or beliefs you have that come from your background and culture."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ab7e30883d6e","_type":"quote","attribution":"Joanne, WA","quote":"I was initially against taking medication, especially as I was still breastfeeding. They presented to me research done by the hospital to demonstrate the amount of medication that would be transferred. They prescribed the medication and I started taking it and within a few weeks my mindset started to improve."},{"_key":"e30dbc296623","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2ede652449330","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s normal to feel uneasy – you want the best for yourself and your baby. We encourage you to get as much information as possible about the medication that is being recommended to you. It’s important this information comes from a trusted professional source who has experience with medications for mental health, like your doctor or psychiatrist."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"64404a34a6fc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1c4bcd2d87df","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Expert advice on medication use in the perinatal period can also be obtained from Medications Information Helplines which are available in each state. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"97d1d32c63ff","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b801f3964560","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We discourage you from seeking information about medications from unreliable sources on the internet."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"22f78a67cdbe","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","document":{"_ref":"4af3f3dd-21d7-45c9-b150-2cae7e53c7e9","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"},"style":"arrow","text":"Medications information helplines"}]},{"_key":"de35bcda2ad6","_type":"articleCollection","background":{"title":"orange60","value":"#FFA688"},"eyebrow":"Articles"},{"_key":"a12f24b1c106","_type":"storyCollection","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"eyebrow":"Stories"}],"relatedArticles":[{"_id":"a938dce0-5aad-4627-9531-dcff4c2e7795","_type":"article","_rev":"gH4Th5cZY0KlCYrWtexryh","_createdAt":"2022-02-22T00:15:38Z","_updatedAt":"2024-07-04T05:07:12Z","categories":[{"_key":"7b2df4f650d5","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"}],"content":[{"_key":"a4a63e6bfe11","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8081f186267e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes our hopes and dreams for our birth experience don't match the reality of what happens when we have a baby. Birth complications can include physical and emotional difficulties and it can be hard to process. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3bcf6b49059e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0c4ceccd098a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes during the birth process, things might have been rushed or didn’t go to plan. You might have felt you hadn’t really understood what was happening or what you were giving consent to. 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They might say, “a healthy child is all that matters.”"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"90acf9df382d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"de885927f1b40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This kind of advice is often not helpful. Your feelings do matter. If you experienced a difficult birth, either as the birthing or non-birthing parent, it is important that this is acknowledged and that you're given opportunities to talk through your experiences and process what has happened. Talking about your experience and feelings around your birth in a safe and non-judgmental space can be therapeutic. Sitting on difficult or troubling feelings without addressing them can make them grow stronger and affect your emotional and mental wellbeing, and your relationship with your baby."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a9046a2d5b51","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9addc4628b91","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Note: some complicated births may result in physical injury for mum. These injuries may or may not be identified immediately. If in doubt about this, don't to be afraid to ask questions. For more information, the "},{"_key":"13077d6fe0b0","_type":"span","marks":["af6d4b9431a2"],"text":"Australasian Birth Trauma Association"},{"_key":"50d4ffc9c7f1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" website has some great information."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"af6d4b9431a2","_type":"link","href":"http://www.birthtrauma.org.au/where-to-start/what-is-birth-trauma/what-is-physical-birth-trauma/","linkType":"external"}],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"f6d1f1a96ba8","_type":"freeText","text":[{"_key":"19c8543fb57c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d5c773eedb29","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Memory loss or a delayed response"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"0ce9d257830a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9dbf645b0d260","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"On PANDA’s National Helpline we regularly hear parents say they don’t remember much about the birthing process. Memory loss is a common response to trauma, and our brain’s way of ‘protecting’ us from distressing events including deep grief and loss. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"460155b016eb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"545010180fcf0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Parents may feel ‘emotionally numb’ after the birth. Sometimes this can affect how we bond with our new baby. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"075f49938e96","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d7aaed5e9261","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes difficult emotions about the birth don’t arrive until we’ve had time to settle into our new reality and we’ve had time to reflect. This might be weeks or months after the birth and can occur on the anniversary of your baby’s birth. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2f90e89f30f3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d79c28f4b5fd0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes the feelings then come in a rush, and it can feel overwhelming."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"6cbf98f99f69","_type":"freeText","text":[{"_key":"afb0345d7fd3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9055836f624a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Understanding what happened during the birth can help "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"a2ee33f9e7b9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4a7f439b57e80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Receiving clear information from a healthcare provider about the details surrounding your birth experience can help. If you have a trusted obstetrician, midwife, doctor or doula that you feel safe sharing your feelings with, you might find it helpful to talk to them about your birth experience."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"66d202c8fd1b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"53695e49ce77","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some parents find it helpful to talk about their birth with someone from the hospital, while others find it more helpful to speak to someone in the community, like a counsellor or peer support practitioner. Peer support practitioners are available via the PANDA Helpline and the "},{"_key":"253dfca4619d","_type":"span","marks":["1c4047813071"],"text":"Australasian Birth Trauma Association"},{"_key":"89fe1af79285","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":". 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If it makes you feel more comfortable, you might like to take a support person or partner with you."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f1465ceb3086","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e46f76301acd0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6d6aa1c73df3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4a96f5cd81f90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Finding the right support "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"c7c0f48f51ad","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"034421ee651b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you are experiencing difficult emotions following a complicated birth, you are not alone, and there is help available. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ac9a0c39903e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6c2ceea9124a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA’s National Helpline is available to talk through your feelings around the birth. The Helpline provides a safe and confidential space. 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It all came crashing down and I realised I was nowhere near being okay. I felt really flat and had this incredible sense of isolation. "},{"_key":"4afceae010bd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7975792f2aa20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Many of the risk factors can affect anyone. 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"},{"_key":"3ebc690a396a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ee0afa5d47ed0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"‘Minority stress’ is a term for the mental health impacts of exclusion, discrimination, mistreatment and stigma. It can arise from direct personal experiences, and from broader social stigma."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ef590823a855","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"670a95dbb704","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Minority stress contributes to mental distress and stops people getting help. 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"},{"_key":"2b0ac846fc8c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"76bc14fd375e","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s important to be aware of the risks and potential symptoms, and to seek help if you’re worried about yourself or a loved one."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2181bac477cd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b5d88cc83b8a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are many pathways to getting help. 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Nothing like I had been expecting to feel just before the arrival of our baby."},{"_key":"17ea03140153","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"114b12d528720","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"4e02ed221c1e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5b5cd30f40e8","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Seeking advice"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"dda1010eeaa4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c90e3d034d9e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re an expecting parent worried about your emotional and mental wellbeing, it’s important to seek support from a trusted health professional."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"aa4d68f4f898","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c2d40d889def","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We recommend you see your doctor first, but it’s also a great idea to speak with other health professionals like your midwife or obstetrician for information and advice."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f2c0d018b53d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"53e474a79ee1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor can help you understand what’s happening and discuss the best treatment options for you. 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Some issues which may contribute to feelings of depression, anxiety, low energy or lack of motivation include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"affb51de5230","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cf2a39f2f285","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Low iron and vitamin deficiencies"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ed0c8a6be45f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c21e0681d69d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Thyroid problems"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e6f0e00b5d0b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d55056f2dff7","_type":"span","marks":["0f3e52e7f989"],"text":"Gestational diabetes"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"0f3e52e7f989","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/about-diabetes/gestational-diabetes/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4213ef361edf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8036b6bda24b","_type":"span","marks":["32038eed04fb"],"text":"Hyperemesis"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"32038eed04fb","_type":"link","linkType":"external","url":"https://www.hyperemesisaustralia.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2d19ca2c8061","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"44dafdf17aa50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Distressing or overwhelming thoughts and feelings can resolve if identified and treated. "},{"_key":"8c95aaf5a3e8","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Please remember that if you don’t feel heard by your health professional or you’re not satisfied with the advice and treatment you receive, it’s always worth seeking a second opinion."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"231808187a51","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8d6ba4da2f85","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re in any doubt, call the PANDA National Helpline. Our telephone counsellors will listen carefully to your concerns and explore different care pathways with you, including additional referral options if you need them."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"579a396a1cd2","_type":"quote","quote":"My advice to anyone in this position, is to seek help, don't suffer alone."},{"_key":"0de2a1499550","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8f953c1ea6dd0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"67f75b195f30","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"aeac3a0ba4bb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Concerned about medication? Try to be as informed as possible."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"daaef8bcd666","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a2758845ac360","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some people feel concerned or fearful about taking medications for mental health, like anti-anxiety medications or antidepressants. It’s natural to have concerns about possible side effects for you and your unborn baby. People may also feel uncertain or think that there’s something wrong or shameful about taking medication for mental health due to misconceptions."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fe8828ab4784","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2d69e7bfb0630","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2d0bd06ba7d3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7f9656e9bd220","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes there’s stigma about taking medications for mental health as well. Media, friends, family,or even your own beliefs can make you think that somehow you should be able to cope without medication. You may also be sitting with stigma about medications for mental health that come from your background and culture. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"49dbfbd77f89","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d168e619cd06","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Stigma is judging others or yourself as though there’s something wrong withtaking medication to feel better – when really there is absolutely nothing to hide or be ashamed of."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2c32c49d0b10","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"eb71a7756241","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s normal to feel uneasy though – you want the best for yourself and your bub. We encourage you to get as much information as possible about any medication that’s being recommended to you. 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hobbies)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"002bd0c8dc79","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c33351d207bb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Changes to relationships"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"title":"Common signs and symptoms of antenatal depression"},{"_key":"9b7810b3ca8b","_type":"freeText","background":{"title":"beige100","value":"#EDE8E4"},"text":[{"_key":"43a6cffe6885","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"52d6c1d083e1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Getting help"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"f98ff4430735","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1c41100d01ce","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It can feel hard to share these thoughts and feelings. But it’s important for those around you to be aware of what you’re going through. Then they can support you to get help and some relief from antenatal depression."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f9b2b0173e5c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6afec2109f6d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you are experiencing any of these symptoms (or any others) that are affecting your daily function and mental and emotional wellbeing during pregnancy, it’s a good idea to talk to someone. \n\nIf you don’t feel comfortable speaking with family and friends about what’s happening, "},{"_key":"bc45aa12f070","_type":"span","marks":["strong","d684cce51ee3"],"text":"you can call PANDA"},{"_key":"ecabf0c64625","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":". We’ll listen, give you more information and can help you link in with antenatal mental health supports in your area."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"d684cce51ee3","_type":"link","document":{"_ref":"09a8636c-b6c5-4b7d-ac91-a3c362fe67e1","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"d138baa560d8","_type":"storyCollection","categoryOrTag":{"_ref":"49993bd9-e417-4743-b155-591d0a496a77","_type":"reference"},"eyebrow":"Stories","population":"latest","posts":[],"storyType":"story"},{"_key":"548fe2a43a49","_type":"checklist","field":"content"},{"_key":"9b797211e239","_type":"helpLine","field":"content"}],"relatedArticles":[{"_key":"a88f74b96109","_ref":"5e8254da-2533-4698-8504-12ad8bec7598","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"2de04867b7b8","_ref":"9aa50a2e-c32f-4dda-a8ac-8da56d0b6bf6","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"f8122ea4cbe6","_ref":"0dd44d32-f29c-4ed4-b700-c1b55dfbb570","_type":"reference"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"Are depression symptoms interfering with your ability to enjoy your life and pregnancy?","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-8ac4ab7cf8cf881c31473861e963a9b596a060ea-1200x630-png","_type":"reference"}}},"showFeedbackForm":true,"sidebarPosts":[{"_key":"4fc12bbbf86c","_ref":"b1cb382b-dab8-44f5-a8f2-1109d03f2980","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"192afb252607","_ref":"09a8636c-b6c5-4b7d-ac91-a3c362fe67e1","_type":"reference"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"antenatal-depression-signs-and-symptoms"},"tags":[{"_key":"3aa457c7754a","_ref":"49993bd9-e417-4743-b155-591d0a496a77","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"da04b625f466","_ref":"86acc926-5328-468e-8bdd-8292f51fa04e","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Antenatal depression: Signs and symptoms ","id":"-768ba81f-e0f8-5282-9d49-801e0aabf153","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"a6e5000776a2c2da5a871caef1eb7e9f","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":147},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"antenatal-depression-signs-and-symptoms"}}},{"_id":"50f65345-d46c-4cda-a886-b7bcc3567248","_type":"article","_rev":"28Ey2N6aiyTS8vMpxWQEKh","_createdAt":"2022-02-14T07:39:29Z","_updatedAt":"2023-12-18T00:02:01Z","categories":[{"_key":"a1e91dbee1af","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"f9bef91f9170","_ref":"a4331950-09cf-4e89-9803-5127aa533bc7","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"566b88f3a855","_ref":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"reference"}],"content":[{"_key":"4072caa04804","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"95f9c26183260","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Expecting a baby or becoming a parent is a huge life change, full of excitement and challenges. Mental health distress including anxiety and depression is common and affect 1 in 5 birth parents and 1 in 10 non-birth parents."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"49d51bba2f18","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b56dfe36a12a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"With so much change happening, parenthood can feel be confusing. Sometimes it’s tricky to recognise if you need more support."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f311ce0b672e","_type":"quote","quote":"It’s the hardest job in the world and it does take adjustment. Don’t feel ashamed or blame yourself for how you feel. Don’t try to do it alone. Seek out services, even just a call to a counsellor. "},{"_key":"3bf7c3c7b56d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e558e642cff80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal mental health distress can occur any time - from planning to conception, and throughout the postnatal period."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4aa724c77ea6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"17ab5019c8fb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Symptoms are diverse; they can be mild, moderate or severe, and can change quickly. The most common symptoms people experience are anxiety and depression."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bdb9cf1a410c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0b5cadfe21800","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal mental health concerns are common and treatable. They can happen to anyone. The sooner you can get the right support for yourself and your family, the more likely you are to experience a quick recovery."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","headline":"Emotional and mental wellbeing for LGBTIQA+ parents","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"2 mums cuddling","asset":{"_ref":"image-00253d44de992d73cea3d719747a4e5fa234f070-3334x3334-png","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"87d2d3195258","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0e82735d31a10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"All expecting and new parents deserve inclusive, appropriate support for their wellbeing – including LGBTIQA+ parents."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"fdf6c80ad11e","_type":"freeText","background":{"title":"beige100","value":"#EDE8E4"},"text":[{"_key":"72e47bcfecf0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"afc766ac2da80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What puts you at risk?"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"944487f800e2","_type":"quote","quote":"My partner returned to work and I was left at home on my own, trying to heal physically and having to look after this little baby - even though I had no idea what to do. It all came crashing down and I realised I was nowhere near being okay. I felt really flat and had this incredible sense of isolation. "},{"_key":"4afceae010bd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7975792f2aa20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Many of the risk factors can affect anyone. On the PANDA Helpline, callers often share experiences including fertility issues, losing a baby or pregnancy, a difficult pregnancy, a traumatic birth, feeding or settling difficulties, prior mental health issues or trauma, difficult or absent family relationships, financial stress, isolation or family violence."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"da4e1428a12b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6da62c0ea9420","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4176a920e0aa","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"89f24147405e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"As an LGBTIQA+ expecting or new parent, you may face added risks, such as the challenge of accessing inclusive care from fertility, surrogacy, antenatal or birth services."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bb309ede6223","_type":"quote","quote":"The hardest part for my partner has always been the use of the term ‘dads’ when referring to non-birth parents. She found it so ingrained in the medical system and it made her feel less relevant and less important. [It] prevented her from reaching out."},{"_key":"729f1fcbb76a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2bbb5de1b71d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"LGBTIQA+ people often have to advocate for their needs to care providers who have limited knowledge about LGBTIQA+ parent families, or safe, appropriate care for trans, gender diverse and/or intersex clients. It’s exhausting, and it can stop people voicing their needs, or even accessing care."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3a87eadd400c","_type":"quote","quote":"Having children means you are perpetually coming out: to childcare, to doctors, to school mums. It was uncomfortable always making decisions about whether to ‘come out’ or let it slide. Being a new mum is exhausting enough, add postnatal depression and sometimes claiming my identity felt too much. "},{"_key":"3ebc690a396a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ee0afa5d47ed0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"‘Minority stress’ is a term for the mental health impacts of exclusion, discrimination, mistreatment and stigma. It can arise from direct personal experiences, and from broader social stigma."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ef590823a855","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"670a95dbb704","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Minority stress contributes to mental distress and stops people getting help. LGBTIQA+ people mayalso hesitate to access mainstream services during a crisis, due to fear of discrimination."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"a950ef13f591","_type":"checklist","field":"content"},{"_key":"4ad25d37d420","_type":"freeText","text":[{"_key":"5c68c2989c1c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"208710c3e98e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Getting help if you need it"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"9c1ffdaffe57","_type":"quote","quote":"My partner came out as trans when our baby was about five months old. It was such a relief, but it was a few big months. Exhaustion, isolation, and confusion started to take hold of me, and I had come to be aware of some unresolved trauma that was really kicking me around. I lay in bed feeling so, so sad – day, after day, after day. "},{"_key":"2b0ac846fc8c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"76bc14fd375e","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s important to be aware of the risks and potential symptoms, and to seek help if you’re worried about yourself or a loved one."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2181bac477cd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b5d88cc83b8a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are many pathways to getting help. Good places to start include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7eb3a0cdb812","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b19cf16555940","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your antenatal/birth care providers, such as a midwife or your obstetrician"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"73ec493c465a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"13d3cef59e070","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your child health nurse"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"740d65d975bd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cd27d51286a40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7bd34c956272","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"46f2103ad7730","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A doctor who has experience in mental health can play an essential role in diagnosis and treatment planning, including referral to specialist services for counselling."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8d9270bc362b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8bf30de8353b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You can also contact a specialist perinatal mental health service like PANDA. It’s important to find and advocate for care that feels safe, inclusive and supportive to you."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"954fb2994a4a","_type":"freeText","background":{"title":"beige100","value":"#EDE8E4"},"text":[{"_key":"2af8722ecfb7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e1af1c34f0970","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Finding safe, inclusive care"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"f0588244bf39","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ad794fbec3b60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"As much as possible, look for care providers who can provide inclusive care:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"eb767fd8d50b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b173ac4a76070","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"LGBTIQA+ health services and peer support services like QLife can help you find doctors and other health professionals who are LGBTIQA+ allies."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"53eed47aa968","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://qlife.org.au/"},"style":"arrow","text":"Visit QLife"},{"_key":"0ec19a47938d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d443804312540","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Community-run LGBTIQA+ parent support and play groups can also be a great source of information and support."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0e2626b0050d","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://raisingchildren.net.au/grown-ups/services-support/services-families/rainbow-families-services"},"style":"arrow","text":"Raising Children Network for LGBTQI+ families"},{"_key":"9b3ce3814d89","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"228f6c779bb50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Joining a support group or speaking to trusted and caring health professionals can help reduce the sense of isolation so many new parents feel."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b07307269991","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b1d60fc45efc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"In the perinatal period, people often need to access more health services than before parenthood. Many health services are working towards better LGBTIQA+ inclusion."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"922a476a4bd6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a46ef9a00bae","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The experiences of LGBTIQA+ PANDA Helpline callers, show that you may need to educate some of your care providers about your family’s support needs."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"b9a10b0f2afc","_type":"textImage","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"contentOrder":"textFirst","headline":"How PANDA can help","image":{"_type":"imageWithCaption","asset":{"_ref":"image-5779cb2a1bfe13225c1ed115649861a41656699c-2500x1500-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"d80304c92781","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3def98fdec670","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA has LGBTIQA+ staff and volunteers throughout our organisation, and our Helpline counsellors and peer support volunteers are committed to providing inclusive care to all callers from the LGBTIQA+ community. You can call the Helpline about yourself or someone you know. Our counsellors will listen and help you take the first steps towards recovery."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0adc8f6cbff7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e4c33aad2e29","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This may include helping you locate LGBTIQA+ specialist/inclusive services or supporting you to advocate for your needs in mainstream services. You may also like to check out our Mental Health Checklists, which you can use to explore potential symptoms affecting you or a loved one. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"09fcbb36ba1e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"05427ee9022a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You can email yourself a copy of your checklist results and use your answers as a starting point when talking to health professionals and advocating for your support needs."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"39cdd1b20308","_type":"fileCollection","files":[{"_key":"be2a090b985b","_type":"download","background":{"title":"brightTeal20","value":"#E1F9F7"},"cta":"Download","file":{"_type":"file","asset":{"_ref":"file-8b98fa58d85a4c794a7d59e9a70c30b6b72bb960-pdf","_type":"reference"}},"title":"Emotional and mental wellbeing for LGBTIQA+ expecting and new parents"},{"_key":"73785a2a9294","_type":"download","background":{"title":"beige200","value":"#D7D2CE"},"cta":"Download","file":{"_type":"file","asset":{"_ref":"file-1deb70c7f6b757c842d16c228a8b985e360ba7e1-pdf","_type":"reference"}},"title":"Adjusting to parenthood"}],"title":"Useful downloads"}],"relatedArticles":[{"_key":"f4cbda1c7b89","_ref":"41b862de-8310-4501-8a82-1005cfa42214","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"b748d53e7bcd","_ref":"fea97186-dda1-4111-b7dc-a7bf8408f790","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"cbebd29030e7","_ref":"ea5008f7-a47e-4676-9ae0-c723bfd48898","_type":"reference"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"All expecting and new parents deserve inclusive, appropriate support for their wellbeing – including LGBTIQA+ parents","metaTitle":"Wellbeing for LGBTIQA+ parents","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-abd600cd0ca364152e3d833e0b62cfe1e057f96f-1200x630-png","_type":"reference"}}},"showFeedbackForm":true,"sidebarPosts":[{"_key":"063c79bc84c7","_ref":"310776fc-166b-416c-8958-8fbbf1b695b2","_type":"reference"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"wellbeing-for-lgbtiqa-parents"},"tags":[{"_key":"26df378b76e3","_ref":"49993bd9-e417-4743-b155-591d0a496a77","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"11f4eea83ff3","_ref":"49993bd9-e417-4743-b155-591d0a496a77","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"f8acdcefd9e0","_ref":"93c6a6d9-0f5a-45ab-a76e-08706724c63d","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Wellbeing for LGBTIQA+ parents","id":"-a64e422e-b442-5672-a1e0-db4e952cbb48","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"69db6f2d438bee071b6d45cb414c7dba","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":70},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"wellbeing-for-lgbtiqa-parents"}}},{"_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. 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you’re pregnant or caring for a new baby, you may need to take medications to treat a range of conditions, from your physical to mental health. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"99b76ce6b462","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"22651dda1cf6","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Medication for nausea and gestational diabetes is common during pregnancy. Many new mums take medication during birth recovery and to support lactation if they’re breastfeeding."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7460b15f7e56","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"73ef8bff22b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes, you may need to take medication for your mental health as well. One of your health professionals (eg your doctor, obstetrician, psychologist or psychiatrist) may have recommended that you consider taking medication to treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, or another mental health concern. It’s natural to have questions."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f9dc9e8e84d1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"37b947fe2f7e","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You may be wondering about side effects from medication, either for yourself or your baby. This is a common concern during pregnancy and for parents who are breastfeeding."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0f1d0c1526d8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f8d1d4c3674f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Maybe you’ve never taken medication for your mental health before, or not had a positive experience previously. There may also be stigma (negative associations) with medications for mental health in your social circle or culture."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a7ab888df22a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6acb42e1011b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Often it’s seen as perfectly acceptable to take medications for a physical condition, like a headache or diabetes, but there are still some taboos around treating mental health with medication. This needs to change – taking care of your mental health is just as important as treating any physical health conditions."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f354a1c56bdb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"748c70d508b1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Untreated mental health can be a risk to you and your baby. It’s incredibly hard to manage parenting when you’re also trying to cope with changes to your mental health that are affecting your daily function."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ac12e93faf77","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"41517f83d224","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are a range of treatment options available for mental health, including counselling and medication. We know from decades of research that there are many medications used to treat mental health during pregnancy and after having a baby that are safe to take. Certain medications have a low risk profile in terms of transmission (either to your unborn baby, or via breastmilk transfer)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a4b1804c1d4b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a2413019953e0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"We do not provide medication advice on the PANDA Helpline – but we do provide a space for you to talk through your options, thoughts, and feelings about taking medication."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1be5af53df38","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"252930a7a01c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We can also help you link to services that provide advice about medication use during pregnancy and after your baby is born. We encourage you to talk to your doctor for information and advice about medication. Some specialist medication advice services are also listed at the bottom of this page."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c575dddeddb9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d187761bb737","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Being informed about medications is essential – it’s important you feel confident and comfortable about any medication you are taking."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"73a89a2c0445","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cefcbd8bf986","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Medication is a broad term that encompasses a whole range of substances, not just medicine that you swallow."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fa5d3a9b83cc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f352b80dd872","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Medication can take the form of:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"99413cb14e12","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"689d02872d880","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Tablets and capsules, either available over the counter or by prescription."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"688a8ada9d5d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a3058709fce20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Liquid medication, either ingested or administered via injection (eg, an iron infusion at your doctor, or medication to induce labour)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"812cc1a471fa","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"41b2cadc89ac0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Inhalants, like nasal sprays or asthma medication."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f09f3d948da0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"85f93a3931720","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Ointments or patches you apply to your skin."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"31758210aeb5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b5aca75605c60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Suppositories you insert in your body."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"06dc7208fa4f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4456468d759e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Vitamins and supplements."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"32d64fb8bc1a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e76b4a8dd0bc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Herbal preparations, including tinctures and teas."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"29027f541ad8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ece0c15f3c070","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor or local pharmacist can provide you with information about medication use for yourself and your baby. You can also request a referral from your doctor for a home medicines review. This is a free service."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"042661870aaf","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/home-medicines-review"},"style":"arrow","text":"Home medicines review"},{"_key":"65cb3f3dd93b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d0de40d0314e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c402ebfae3e2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0b633db9c8200","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor will refer you to a local accredited pharmacist to discuss your use of any prescription medicines, over the counter medication, and vitamins and supplements."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7f89f4449abd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5c84935e2404","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The pharmacist will:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a7edeb61c76e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"01643f531ff70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Answer any questions you have"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e923a67a385e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"943eb4f8eee70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Check that you are using medicines correctly (eg, dosage and time of day, storage)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9e4dde2dc3ca","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"213b9e1bec2a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"May recommend changes to your medication"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2cd3d07d3ff4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"71983885c8a40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Provide a report to your GP"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f52f70bc11b9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8fae93b6e4920","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You doctor will then create a personalised Medication Management Plan for you. You’ll receive a copy of your plan to share with any health professionals who are caring for you. You can request a free home medicines review every 12 months."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"brightTeal60","value":"#86DECF"},"headline":"Medication use in the perinatal period","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Mum on phone to doctor","asset":{"_ref":"image-e4b233589ba1e25e7bb521eebca29a5358a592dc-600x600-png","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"c0c1e97aa463","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"23c12dfd96ca0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s common to have questions about medication use during the perinatal period. Specialist health professional supports are available to provide advice and guidance on what’s best for you and your baby."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"9811727d73b0","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"ebb1eefca70d","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"1e76626253b5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5e693e8300230","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The medication advice line is provided by the Australian Government’s Department of Health. 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It can take a temporary toll on intimacy in adult relationships and be challenging to manage as a couple."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3e77de76abf9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d0666390ac05","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Mental health changes during pregnancy and as a new parent can have a major impact on desire for emotional connection, and libido (desire for sex and intimacy)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5ad503cdaf99","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"774895403343","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We speak to many parents who are concerned about their relationship and mismatched libidos. One partner might desire more (or less) intimacy than the other, or affection at different times."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3df4445fb50e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"111085325ca1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If it’s your partner who is withdrawing and showing less desire for intimacy, it can be hard not to take it personally. You might feel hurt or rejected. If it’s you who’s feeling emotionally disconnected or experiencing a drop in libido, it can feel confronting and be difficult to talk about with your partner."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e16255494c71","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"330d3a141fd2","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Reassure your partner that you understand any changes to their desire for affection or sex right now. Be honest with them about how you’re feeling too, especially if you’ve noticed changes to your own libido. These conversations can feel awkward at first but a long-term, mutually satisfying sexual relationship always starts with open and honest communication."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a694ca242c82","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"97d668cdf8ab","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Explore other ways of expressing affection and intimacy (like cuddles or a relaxing massage). Doing this can strengthen the emotional bond between you, as can talking about how you’re both feeling and managing being new parents together."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"de46a2cfcf27","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b6b2cee4a9840","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sex and emotional connection"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"4b487efc8128","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"83d76f01fa19","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"02800a90362e","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We often hear from new dads that are concerned their partner doesn’t feel ready for visitors like close family and friends. This can be hard to hear when loved ones are excited to come over and meet your new baby, especially when you want to share the joy and celebrate too."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b90525914a4f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c88070953d20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If your partner is experiencing symptoms of anxiety and/or depression, social withdrawal is common in the early stages of parenthood. It’s important to give your partner the space and time they need to look after themselves and your baby, and not pressure them into having visitors before they feel ready."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2e28fa2b7f9e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0dd13f458803","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you feel up to socialising but your partner doesn’t, it’s important that you respect their wishes but also take care of your own need for social connection. You can do this by continuing to catch up with family and friends outside the family home."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f0c555ad1238","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"94179383bb89","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If your partner doesn’t feel ready for visitors, try video calling family and friends and discuss other options with your partner (like giving them a break while you visit family and friends yourself with bub)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"db731416c24f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"19140a3145f10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Visitors and socialising"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"2c389f1e419f","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"a479a34e4d0b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"76671db8fa23","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If there’s ongoing stress in your relationship, it’s important to find time to "},{"_key":"24712e7414ba","_type":"span","marks":["7e90aa31c6a0"],"text":"talk to each other."},{"_key":"24e97daff55d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"  It might also be helpful to talk to a couples "},{"_key":"6140e70ab014","_type":"span","marks":["65cd34323eab"],"text":"counsellor"},{"_key":"c1692877cdba","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"65cd34323eab","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://relationships.org.au/"},{"_key":"7e90aa31c6a0","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"f4abbdeb-6b67-4954-9429-67485600a65e","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal","url":"https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/having-difficult-conversations-with-your-partner"}],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"14a96d8f3d2b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d4e08a4f4ace0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Counselling"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"06914b4f5d15","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"0d4e746fcbd0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3621913e2e4d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you or your partner are unwell (e.g., emotional, mental, or physical health issues during pregnancy or after your baby is born) then one of you may have taken on the majority share of household and family duties."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5c19d7de3afe","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"00552ebc740c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re working, cooking, cleaning, looking after your partner and baby – often when sleep deprived – it can be a huge emotional and mental load for expecting and dads."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a5f82e530cfb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0e0810cb8f2b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA’s factsheet on caring for your partner has some helpful tips about supporting your partner, managing competing demands, and looking after yourself in the mix."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"73cb743e3024","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"9aa50a2e-c32f-4dda-a8ac-8da56d0b6bf6","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"},"style":"box","text":"Tips for caring for your partner"}],"question":[{"_key":"49ddfc846653","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ec4720f478cf","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Caring for your partner"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"title":"Relationship tips for new dads "},{"_key":"7f3e57df3422","_type":"freeText","background":{"title":"beige100","value":"#EDE8E4"},"text":[{"_key":"7a59d833779f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a24973ab66890","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Early parenthood is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be stressful, exhausting, and overwhelming. Hold off, if you can, on making any big life decisions right now - like changes to your relationship, career, or home."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"78c4e0190e5a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"db4c641639a6","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Give yourself permission to simply focus on looking after your partner, your baby, and yourself for the moment."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a1cb4ea56d3e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"061f2ed00879","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Reach out and ask for help if you need it – whether that’s family and friends, your employer, or a trusted health professional. All new parents need support, and PANDA is here for you if you want to chat about ways to manage competing demands in your relationships."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"4e44f9570640","_type":"storyCollection","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"categoryOrTag":{"_ref":"f72ed5fd-4128-46cf-b3ca-bdf1ed7b9837","_type":"reference"},"eyebrow":"Stories","population":"latest","posts":[{"_key":"cad7fc9bd7ad","_ref":"1b42b738-78f0-4fef-92da-249dc3a54f37","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Stories about dads"},{"_key":"3d8425988436","_type":"articleCollection","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"eyebrow":"Articles","population":"select","posts":[{"_key":"03de40eff061","_ref":"f4abbdeb-6b67-4954-9429-67485600a65e","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"0595f1ebf2af","_ref":"9aa50a2e-c32f-4dda-a8ac-8da56d0b6bf6","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"52499b811923","_ref":"a1329df5-57c4-454b-8c52-b34451c438ee","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"fc4dede8c98a","_ref":"421a9561-4b20-49f6-ba43-d83aade5b600","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Support for dads"},{"_key":"85fb24808e00","_type":"checklist","field":"content"}],"relatedArticles":[],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"Here are some ways to stay connected and still find time to look after yourself too.","metaTitle":"Managing relationships: guide for dads","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-b68386a223062441c96e26b273c424ebcb6145ef-1200x630-png","_type":"reference"}}},"showFeedbackForm":true,"sidebarPosts":[{"_key":"e475e3d11996","_ref":"6f4bac72-ed82-47ff-9155-aa2a02fb1833","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"ceaa8df3631f","_ref":"1e855afd-2d29-428e-998e-efa710e2a026","_type":"reference"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"managing-relationships-guide-for-dads"},"tags":[{"_key":"80335dc3b279","_ref":"e7d8ddd8-75df-47bd-aa02-f873eb150d9a","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Managing relationships: guide for dads","id":"-bdfd7625-c7c2-5f91-9492-f49001c8ec8a","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"651897354f8411530f4bcda5abd46359","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":117},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"managing-relationships-guide-for-dads"}}},{"_id":"4911b17f-e3fb-4af2-b0a4-ee72e55ec38c","_type":"article","_rev":"dpQ2IysUm09sCEUZjT0fF9","_createdAt":"2022-02-07T06:14:24Z","_updatedAt":"2023-12-17T23:57:18Z","categories":[{"_key":"98691c65d568","_ref":"a4331950-09cf-4e89-9803-5127aa533bc7","_type":"reference"}],"content":[{"_key":"23b8317f96d3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ace22db393370","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Becoming a parent can be a wonderful time of life,but as a time of intense change and adjustment it can also bring "},{"_key":"e6a679c67e86","_type":"span","marks":["f7e6ab7fe732"],"text":"strong and unexpected feelings."},{"_key":"d46e39294e04","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" You may experience many different emotions as you adjust to the new realities of pregnancy and anticipating becoming a parent."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"f7e6ab7fe732","_type":"link","document":{"_ref":"310776fc-166b-416c-8958-8fbbf1b695b2","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"62bdfc29006e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ed484bb426c5","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There may be changes in your intimate and family relationships, your working relationships and career, and an evolving sense of who you are and what’s important to you."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"aa99594daefe","_type":"quote","quote":"I struggled with the changes that were impacting my body, and I began to feel disconnected from my identity"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-07","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"headline":"Adjusting to change during pregnancy ","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Pregnant mum and dad holding hands","asset":{"_ref":"image-6d747a1e28d73b0e92d2e31bc4d7729d0543010e-2500x1669-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"2edd7668f4fe","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6e946eacbba20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Becoming a parent can be a joyful, rewarding experience - but pregnancy can also be a stressful, complicated and confusing time."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"2606116a1bfc","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"35ed56049753","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"8ba9fdf324d4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8d40a84c1b300","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Different upbringings, life experiences and expectations can influence your relationship with your partner (if you have one), and sole parents’ relationships with their support network of family and friends. During pregnancy and early parenthood it’s common to feel more tired, emotional and vulnerable than usual. This can impact the way you and your loved ones relate, especially if they’re not fully aware of any changes you’re experiencing to your mental health and emotional wellbeing. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"388bc8305d4c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bb2978c8a361","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you have a partner, changes to libido (desire for intimacy and affection), and any shifts in parenting, household and financial responsibilities may place additional stress on your relationship. Specialist couple counselling is available for parents wanting to strengthen their relationship as partners."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"20085bffffc5","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://relationships.org.au/"},"style":"arrow","text":"Relationships Australia"}],"question":[{"_key":"8b4c374c1a58","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1419f820af38","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Relationships"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"c4134a9f7f00","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"9e8dc96c617e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"35e7d4dbb4d50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your values and the things that are important to you can change as you transition to becoming a parent. You may feel worried about how having a baby will impact your career or capacity to work or study in future. If you’re pregnant, you might feel more tired than usual which can impact your daily function, including productivity at work."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b6516e9af287","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cd514453fd8d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Research suggests the unpaid labour of raising children and working in the home is equivalent to having 2.5 full-time jobs. Navigating the balance between unpaid home duties and paid work can be a challenge you may start to navigate while you’re expecting your baby."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"55a61c150cc4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c496dbcbab29","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Work"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"8c97d97ee58f","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"3dd56234cf74","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0c832b9ceea60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your relationship with your own family can change when you’re expecting your own child. Reflecting on the kind of parent you want to be may start you thinking about your own upbringing in new ways. Having a baby can increase closeness with your own parents as you become a parent yourself and have new insight and appreciation for what they went through when they were at your current life stage."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ba2f491ad44b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"158618905520","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"However, if you experienced trauma, divorce or other family conflict in your own childhood, you may be reflecting on these experiences as you think about what kind of childhood you want your own baby to have. For some people, this can be a difficult and painful experience. Professional supportmay be helpful in processing any distressing memories or feelings you’re experiencing\n\n"},{"_key":"72a3fd83e417","_type":"span","marks":["c00064901cba"],"text":"Blue Knot "},{"_key":"9fd60e0d534b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"is a great resource for information on how to navigate support for childhood trauma."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"c00064901cba","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://blueknot.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"82b5f288bb3e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"40e7cccf95c1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Family dynamics"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"31b2dd2c15f5","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"e59b8ecfc433","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"908c11e112ed0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you’re pregnant, a broad spectrum of changes will happen to your body. Some are internal shifts as your baby grows, like hormonal fluctuations, breath and heartrate, and appetite changes. Others are externally visible, such as swelling and enlargement of various body parts."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"97d90cc46608","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d1484595ce22","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" Many expecting parents tell us they feel unprepared for the ways their physical health changes during pregnancy."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c7209fbdfd51","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b3ce1dfb4d3b","_type":"span","marks":["47dd5924a278"],"text":"Pregancy Birth & Baby"},{"_key":"760f4527888c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" have some good resources about common problems in pregnancy."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"47dd5924a278","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/common-pregnancy-problems"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fc63f97674b8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e3277a09089a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some expecting parents delight in these changes, whilst others find them challenging. As your body changes and adapts to accommodate your baby, it can also be hard when it feels like your personal, private pregnancy is suddenly on public display. Well-meaning comments and observations from loved ones, health professionals and strangers about your pregnant body may feel intrusive or upsetting at times, as can unexpected or unwanted touch."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"392e8de9d1bc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"109ea7e5967a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"For people with a history of sexual abuse and/or disordered eating, some physical changes during pregnancy may trigger distressing thoughts, feelings and memories. 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Distressing emotions or moments of feeling low are normal responses throughout life for everybody. However, if you’re pregnant and feeling excessively worried, overwhelmed, very sad or low, or struggling to sleep, we encourage you to seek support and talk to someone."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a418e13e95b8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f9659050b3790","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you have previously experienced mental health challenges, pregnancy may increase the likelihood you’ll experience symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. Having a wellbeing care plan in place during pregnancy can be helpful, especially if it includes warning signs that your mental and emotional health are changing, and who to contact for support."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"c4c4812f4f80","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"132816e98314","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Mental and emotional changes"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"title":"What kind of changes can you expect? "},{"_key":"439e298475c7","_type":"quote","quote":"Even when change is positive, it can still be challenging. Having mixed and complex emotions while you are expecting your baby is normal, but these can be confronting emotions to manage.  "},{"_key":"5e7828d1f5cb","_type":"faqBlock","questions":[{"_key":"b898a2f35ffd","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"4cf85f88c1a8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ff4f5a64528d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Accepting change is about acknowledging that there are some situations that are beyond your control. You may feel helpless or frustrated about changes to your mental health, body and relationships during pregnancy. A helpful response during times of intense change can be simply acknowledging the change is happening, and how that change is affecting you."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"98fee850e415","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9723471baf5e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Acceptance doesn’t mean you have to like what you are experiencing. Nor does it mean accepting things will be a certain way forever. You can acknowledge and accept the past and present, while working to build the future you want."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"30aa8e23be56","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"926013803b050","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Accepting change means acknowledging reality in the here and now, including the fact that difficult and painful experiences sometimes happen when you’re expecting a baby. By doing your best to accept things as they are now - and thinking about what you hope to change in future - you can focus ondeveloping new coping mechanisms for any stressful situations or experiences you encounter throughout your pregnancy."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"8579ec91c2cf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f266485a3c770","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Accepting change"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"2a6d9478697e","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"a02903524ed1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"520fe36a70280","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Having a baby requires you to release the urge to control many things in your life. While you can hope and plan, you can’t predict what the future holds. Letting go of the expectation that you’ll be able to control and influence everything in your life during pregnancy is an important step in embracing the unpredictable journey of parenting. 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"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cb84973f9ba3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"574b7e6691720","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your village might include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fe33449b405e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"519c5d47cbb70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your partner and/or supportive extended family"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"368bea532ef4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"592ce51169900","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Friends who are expecting or who have children"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"770840c56711","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"39ecb7e40b1b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"An expecting parents’ group, such as an antenatal class"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"44a87131e3ea","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f21960b0819d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your GP and other members of your care team (eg your midwife or doula)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d6a37cf363d6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e410d0115c240","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The PANDA helpline"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6769ff8da12a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0f9138aac01a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Online support groups"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b619be273c82","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1bbca02cb1ff0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Other support or social groups"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"aeeff2263fdc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e805ae24749b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Identify support"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"67132d2db7bd","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"1f8f274780fb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d3b4cc33bd790","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s normal to experience a range of moods and emotions while you’re expecting a baby. 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"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"12e6904873f2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8bf2c5852ad7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some aspects of self-care are covered here, including sleep, diet, exercise, time out and social supports."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-24","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","headline":"Wellbeing and self-care ","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Mum holding baby up and kissing on the cheek","asset":{"_ref":"image-31544bad9e7c38876638fe53c51e77cf89d91356-2500x1800-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"6a7cc988da75","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a6fceda6aee2","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Self-care tips for expecting and new parents"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"46b374abde4e","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"9f0e23764221","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"ebe90338ea1c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fc6639335d4f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"For many parents, interrupted sleep can take a mental, physical and emotional toll. Some general rules for sleep hygiene include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ed70065c932c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"10f07f16a50e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Go to bed at the same time each day"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3e327e6cc907","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f305d6b6d9eb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Avoid exercise before bed"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"20e592706620","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2a68262df64d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Make the bedroom as restful an environment as possible"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"979019a0383f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6bea81ed017a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Avoid screentime or other stimulating activities just before bed"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7f707b5d76e1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f90bbacca5290","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Avoid caffeine and other stimulants in the evening"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6d138ce66aaf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7e5722507d420","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Try a warm bath or shower two hours before bed to regulate your body temperature for sleep"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"732c5b82eed9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"051f5bd787570","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Avoid a nap in the evening"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9b25598eed8b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a0989ebcf1350","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you can’t sleep, get up and do something quiet in another room."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e16b716d4d2d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c4444ab7a4250","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Quick naps can improve your alertness and help in decision-making, creativity and sensory perception. Short naps, such as 20 minutes, are less likely to disrupt your sleep at night."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"7a65add50199","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3e95dffc35e9","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sleep"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"53c349786f11","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"8cff2cdf45d1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e2563177a7e40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some parents find themselves snacking on convenience food. We know that setting realistic goals helps. Healthy, home-cooked food for every meal may not be an achievable goal so set goals for your family that are manageable and allow for something easier, such as eggs on toast or toasted sandwiches, on difficult days."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"f70e86041210","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a3688b12848b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Eating"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"60632704539c","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"ebf7dbb657b8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2d4fd5d809920","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"For some people, regular physical exercise is highly beneficial. We know that it can increase serotonin levels - a hormone that contributes to general happiness and wellbeing. We also know that getting out of the house into fresh air and sunshine can lift mood and boost vitamin D."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"57fa70d82e76","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"07b133ecbcca0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"However, setting achievable goals is important. These goals depend on personal circumstances, previous exercise history and physical recovery from birth."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b73d613cb4c2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e4d345e507600","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It can be helpful to schedule in exercise time. When your baby is small, this could be as simple as aiming for a short walk in the morning with the baby in the pram.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"68b1f82210fa","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c3d0287d70200","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"For some mums, childbirth impacts on pelvic floor function. Physiotherapists can help with assessment, treatment and strengthening exercises if this is an issue. If you have any concerns about your physical recovery, it is important to consult a doctor before you undertake any strenuous exercise after birth."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b462bb8e8b9e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"954437711ace0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Exercise may also mean something gentler to some people, such as breathing exercises, meditation or a yoga class. Some people find these beneficial."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"065f1477f1ac","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ce54fc054faf0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Many websites and phone apps provide short guided meditations or relaxation exercises, some specifically for new parents."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"176a1d21f62c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d612ed72f8cb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Exercise and getting outdoors"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"e1ad1a4b940c","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"01c7bb978397","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"df28c6638ab70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Being at home with a baby after years of being in a busy workplace can be an isolating experience for some parents. New and existing social networks can help you feel connected to other adults."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6188e2cf7e28","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2d53049ae4860","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"New mothers’ groups and playgroups are one avenue. Others include free activities, such as story time at the local library, while other people seek connection through online groups, such as supportive Facebook pages."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9ba749dc6df1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6b51824391920","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you are struggling with postnatal mental health issues, there might be a supported playgroup you may be able to attend in your area. These are often run by a health worker or social worker and attended by other parents who have been struggling."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"d58ff8ad22a1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cfbdd6eb1bf80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Social network"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"8a3ae7590dcd","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"c4d3211f9ca7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"086fa755fef90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Time out means different things to everyone. But in general, it is important that parents who are primary carers have a break from the caring role at times. We speak to many parents who experience barriers to this. Sometimes the barrier is a time constraint, sometimes it is driven by a parent feeling guilty or feeling like they shouldn’t need time out from their family."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6e22834d258f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a012a00aefc60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some families find the best way to create time out is to structure it i.e. a set time or activity each week for the primary carer. The additional benefit is that the other parent or carer gets one-on-one time with the baby or child, which can also help with their bonding and confidence. Generally, a parent needing time to themselves gets most benefit if the rest of the family is out of the house, or if the parent can go out themselves.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b7990a68d0da","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"053a0021b20a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some ideas for nurturing time out are:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"56ba9b987f54","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"64c70fa975640","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A class or activity outside the home"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8bcc751f8c62","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"aa4760525cad0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Engaging in a hobby/craft that is enjoyable"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7731aa4331e3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"360ea11afa620","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Taking a relaxing bath"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"235b3796281e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fd454c6b5eb40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Going for a walk"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1cc20204f970","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f96d16bcdf5f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Going shopping"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cb1663bd9f79","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4909c02fc3b10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Listening to music"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1b0103c0016f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bcfbf4eaf37c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Reading a book/magazine"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bd98f5d98f8b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e02c1d556e0d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Watching a movie"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"a209cb3d4bac","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5cfb45060b4d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Time out"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"fc0cd9abb7f7","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"83a04d5277f8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4a195952340b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"For parents, recognising that you are struggling is the first step. For some, this may manifest as obvious symptoms of anxiety, depression or other issues such as obsessive compulsive disorder. For others, it may be more subtle, just a sense of not quite coping, feeling low in energy or not feeling yourself."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ba5c7a6a6d93","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9841339a985a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Callers to the helpline often comment on their relief at being able to talk about what is on their mind. For some people, it is helpful to talk to family or friends. But often, for varied reasons, this is not helpful or possible."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"791773a70081","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8974e71dfbbb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Discussing your concerns with a mental health professional or a helpline such as PANDA is a good option in these cases. It is helpful, if possible, to build a positive relationship with a local doctor. New parents with babies often visit their doctor for the baby’s sake but we encourage callers to connect for their own sake too. Doctors are often the first point of professional contact for mental health concerns."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f60234fafa5f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2ac171c3e4020","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Self-care is partly about reaching out to others when we need it. There are other options for professional support beyond a doctor – facilitated playgroups, psychologists and counsellors – that your doctor or PANDA can help you access."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"f9a7f93091c8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2751bf6aec65","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Mental health / professional support"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}]},{"_key":"e6dd3b47399d","_type":"checklist","field":"content"},{"_key":"670729d1b46d","_type":"fileCollection","files":[{"_key":"c222e18d51a7","_type":"download","background":{"title":"brightTeal20","value":"#E1F9F7"},"cta":"Download PDF","file":{"_type":"file","asset":{"_ref":"file-521b1dd9bb1a75772cd48611e6017e18d67d6bbb-pdf","_type":"reference"}},"title":"Wellbeing and self care factsheet"}]}],"relatedArticles":[{"_key":"587f6b60ce6a","_ref":"3dd5d15a-dcef-45b9-8e91-c6dab35b5c2f","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"8d78bc173209","_ref":"9b76e69e-6f98-4dcc-afba-4d1c93912f37","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"9944eb31b1a5","_ref":"310776fc-166b-416c-8958-8fbbf1b695b2","_type":"reference"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"Stress, interrupted sleep and 24-hour demands can take their toll. But they become more manageable when we are able to care for and nurture ourselves too.","metaTitle":"Wellbeing and self care for expecting and new parents","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-fb293ea1f9e0854c4fb1feb7b1ee57bc9caae1da-1200x630-png","_type":"reference"}}},"showFeedbackForm":true,"sidebarPosts":[{"_key":"183830e529d9","_ref":"3e9170da-2e0e-427f-a832-e5b31624df14","_type":"reference"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"wellbeing-and-self-care"},"tags":[{"_key":"a0025bea6694","_ref":"93c6a6d9-0f5a-45ab-a76e-08706724c63d","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Wellbeing and self care","id":"-3e6ee661-411f-5a64-8cfd-ab7d430f3e5d","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"f85c541efa3a05a2b98e8bc7ca90e22a","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":90},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"wellbeing-and-self-care"}}},{"_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. 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When you call, your call will be answered by a counsellor, or you may be asked to leave us a message during peak times."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2ad286e2501a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c21008e4220b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"In every call you have with PANDA, we listen to your story. Everyone’s parenthood journey is unique, and we want to know about you and your experience."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f0ad9db91b41","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c01378ab67180","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We provide you with a reassuring, confidential space for you to talk openly and honestly about your thoughts, feelings and experiences around pregnancy and parenthood. Together, we’ll explore what supports you currently have in place and whether you’d benefit from any others."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"38c41d32853e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9d629d9c6e3d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA can help find you the support you need. You and your PANDA counsellor will develop a care plan together including referrals, ideas and strategies that will help support you."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9e72183b982c","_type":"quote","quote":"I spoke with a PANDA counsellor and felt a huge weight lift off my shoulders. It was the first step on my road to recovery."}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"brightTeal60","value":"#86DECF"},"headline":"What happens when I call the PANDA Helpline? ","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"illustration of mum on phone while holding her baby","asset":{"_ref":"image-885b5eb38f693819a76ea74c94d8b89f2fdcb163-5001x5001-png","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"ed109e5eafa1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e57a343822c30","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you call PANDA, we’ll provide a safe, caring and confidential space for you to talk through any concerns you may have as an expecting or new parent, or support person."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"cd72814a0a50","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"ce20058466ce","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"d578f70320eb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"324f85351a0a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Most people call PANDA to seek support for themselves. But we also receive calls from partners, family, friends and health professionals."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f9ae8bfca5ec","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"49f639d6cbfb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you call, you’ll have a confidential and supportive space to talk through your feelings. We’ll listen, share practical information and provide helpful resources. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6904d3b5e147","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ff8e01427526","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sharing your story with someone who understands what you are going through can be a relief, and a reassuring step in your parenting journey."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"55aa6637af5b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fbe63d2772b30","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some people call because they are finding the transition to parenting tricky. Others call because they’re concerned they may be experiencing symptoms of perinatal anxiety or depression."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0323bdd23345","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2bd25471bbbb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some of the common concerns we hear are:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"47af9e1dde8d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1cfd759144210","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I don’t know what’s going on, but I just don’t feel like myself."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"24a5b0750ccd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"401ca5d055620","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I’m so tired all the time. I don’t know how much longer I can keep doing this."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2d5a44940899","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"955797f2584f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I can’t stop thinking about the birth. It was nothing like what I had planned."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"32afe61f77a8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"662bae49fdda0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I just yelled at my toddler. I hate this, I’m not being the parent I want to be."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"87fa4ba10609","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ad7b3988b8d10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I don’t enjoy being a parent. I feel so guilty and ashamed."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7c91aa595fbd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"06a3a00035ad0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I’m struggling in my relationship... everything has changed since the birth of my baby."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"46580fb5f6f6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c930a9c7e8000","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I’m not sure I should be having this baby, and I’m not sure if I want to."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ab4791e26765","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3a0273387a8c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I had thoughts of driving into a tree this morning and it scared me. I need help."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"9928177a5b06","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"62c5ab7316e7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Why would I call PANDA? "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"8fab9f4acfc3","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"296a531f8485","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"435a662f4f7b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Everyone who calls PANDA is trying to make sense of unfamiliar thoughts and feelings. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ff631aeba3b8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"13f438a9c625","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You don’t need a referral or a diagnosis of perinatal mental illness to call PANDA. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9a8046cb8331","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0a033de35487","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We don’t provide you with a diagnosis – that’s not our role. We’ll help you understand what’s happening for you and your family. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2eb9d21f4113","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"40c7cb85fbcf","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We’ll listen to what you think might be helpful and provide information and support options for you to consider."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"1c025fea9e25","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1e1301d37c48","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do I need a referral or diagnosis to call PANDA? "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"1ecb985c5b78","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"7fb1247f7da5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e2274380b9890","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you call the PANDA helpline, you may hear a recording talking about PANDA services. This means that you are in the queue to speak with one of our counsellors.You might hear a recording asking if you’d like to leave a message for us with your contact details. We encourage you to do this, as leaving us a message holds your place in the queue and we’ll call you back as soon as a counsellor becomes available."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4f9551d49bf1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dbdd735779a60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you speak to one of counsellors, we'll ask you for some basic contact details and ask a few questions about what prompted you to call the Helpline. We’ll also ask about your own and your baby’s safety and wellbeing. While you can choose to remain anonymous, most of our callers prefer to share their contact details, especially if we’re helping you to find community-based supports in your area."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4185d7d15248","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"77d2f8d201370","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Our counsellors will encourage you to tell us your story. We want to understand what you are concerned about and how it is affecting you and your family.We want to know how we can help you."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"80ed84952b47","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6df1416f19e40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s important to know that our counsellors are respectful and compassionate towards all our callers, whatever their background, nationality, beliefs or sexuality. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ed2b10fb8f22","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"169c60954388","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA’s Helpline service is a safe and secure place to disclose personal details."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"6cbbfed564d5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"633e2dc5ba98","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What happens when I call PANDA? 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You can read more about our Peer Support Program "},{"_key":"a032d3cae82c","_type":"span","marks":["c0a3f2a7bb8f"],"text":"here"},{"_key":"e417bb46e84c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"c0a3f2a7bb8f","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"11f4f6c2-331f-48ff-84f8-640cf425f518","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a7aa0637d8e5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b449998235100","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Follow up calls include a range of supports:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2ec129a95973","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dc4b75b7fa7d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We can keep talking about the issues that matter to you."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0fb3b94104d2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c2bbffe8bb380","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We can explore new strategies to manage thoughts, feelings, parenting and relationships."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e102a3a102a0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8265012a31a10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We can help you connect with services in your community."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b17ee54e718f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"325a70e7512e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Every day we hear of the many obstacles our callers face when trying to access the right help at the right time. Our role is to help you overcome these obstacles. You can stay connected with us until you are feeling able to manage without the additional support. You can call PANDA again at any time."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"06c0147f5e4c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b45f67131480","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Does PANDA offer follow up calls? "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"e82ceb88815a","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"6837b1ae5152","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"aefe6c0ef0160","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA has interpreters available to support those who speak a language other than English or have a hearing or speech impairment. When you call, please press “1” to let us know you need an interpreter."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"2b8080bb2b1d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1176d30ce6bb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Does PANDA offer interpreters? "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"65486593fc7b","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"af014a779b12","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0bfc6a758b490","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Any information you share with PANDA will be treated as confidential unless there are serious concerns for the safety of you or someone else.If there are safety concerns, we’ll need to engage support to help keep you and your loved ones safe."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"85dbf5cdb8a8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"10b70af8312e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We’ll make every effort to work together with you in this process. All calls to the PANDA Helpline are recorded (unless you would prefer us to switch call recording off) and notes will be made of your conversation. These are stored in PANDA’s secure client record system to ensure confidentiality."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"600f1fdd7b63","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","linkType":"internal"},"style":"arrow","text":"Your rights and responsibilities"}],"question":[{"_key":"c6bfa3d41202","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8b5924796b04","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Are calls to PANDA confidential? 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Many people may feel afraid to share these thoughts with their partner or family."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2ab6b9eb11c5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fe2a04307248","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Difficult emotions in the perinatal period can trigger a lot of shame, guilt and sadness. The image you may have had of what you’d be like as a parent probably didn’t include feeling low, crying, or wishing you could take a break from parenting. Yet our callers commonly report having those emotions and thoughts. These thoughts and feelings don’t mean you don’t love your baby, and they don’t mean you are a bad person or parent."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cfb728281771","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a389d1d09102","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"In fact, up to 1 in 5 expecting or new mums and up to 1 in 10 expecting or new dads will develop symptoms of perinatal anxiety and/or depression. Perinatal mental health issues are much more common than many people realise. Even if you aren’t experiencing significant changes to your mental health, it’s still common to experience distressing thoughts and emotions, including worry, doubt and sadness."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c371fe7fc8ac","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6703e5ca9c2b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re struggling with your mental and emotional wellbeing, you might feel confused about whether what you are experiencing is “normal”. You might be unsure of how to start talking about your feelings, or you might feel concerned about what people will think."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"15ca978969d1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5984a0014f7f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s okay to talk about what you’re feeling. Starting the conversation with someone you trust, such as your partner or a friend, can be a first step on the road to seeking professional support."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","headline":"Talking about perinatal mental health ","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","asset":{"_ref":"image-862cdcdd0d02086d49c44f0987ad3af0f3c8cef5-4000x2667-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"87b2c04a8220","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8c277cb548eb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"For many new parents, talking about how they are feeling can be difficult. You may never have experienced feelings and thoughts like this before, and are not sure how to express them."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"ffa010bdf9c7","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"859c67d77707","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"bb54d421653a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"923105162d0a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Callers to PANDA’s National Perinatal Mental Health Helpline often tell us they’ve tried to talk to others about their difficulties during pregnancy or early parenthood, but they haven’t been able to."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3b247e77ebfe","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"676d1ea81c7b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some people find it hard to talk about what they are going through but hope those around them will see they are having difficulties and ask them about it. This is especially so in encounters with health professionals."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"88bc8a453e2f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"841896f672df","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"People often expect GPs, obstetricians, child and family nurses, midwives and others who work with expecting and new parents to easilyeasily identify when their patients are experiencing changes to their emotional and mental health and wellbeing. Many people, including some health professionals, may feel uncomfortable with other people's emotional distress, and may have a limited understanding of how to navigate conversations about perinatal mental health and wellbeing."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d7e3ea83436b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0507962925f7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re finding it difficult to talk with your health professional about your challenges while pregnant or as a new parent, PANDA’s Helpline can provide a safe, secure space to speak about your concerns."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"94b56960190c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4b19e7e69da1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA’s counsellors are caring, compassionate, andwill listen to your story. Together, you and your PANDA counsellor can explore a range of support options and figure out what might be helpful in looking after your emotional and mental wellbeing."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"d05bdf32dd3b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c76fc85fc509","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Barriers to accessing help and support"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"1968fbc9db39","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"7738680c05de","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"554ed1fcecbb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Our culture glorifies pregnancy, parenting and motherhood. Media, social media, movies, TV and advertising tend to portray parenthood as being fun, easy, fulfilling and joyful. While there are moments where being a parent is all these things, being pregnant or caring for a baby can alsobe stressful, tiring and challenging. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4b200a2c5a32","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9b09b9c35559","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Pregnancy and parenthood can be a time of immense struggle, trauma and pain. This time of life can also trigger mental health and wellbeing challenges you didn’t expect."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"1b17ef3082a4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3406ddc1fe0b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Parenting myths vs facts"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a10717aa4ae2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fd7db504aba4","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"9e590badccca","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"82d38b1f9735","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"245aafd0a482","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It can be incredibly upsetting when you confide in someone about how you are feeling, and they’re dismissive or minimise your experience."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"eaa812f7d78f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5be5ee906e8f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This reflects their own thoughts and beliefs and is not a reflection on you. People who call PANDA’s Helpline often tell us that their family, friends and health providers haven’t listened to them, or have responded with unhelpful statements like:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c8fbb9361280","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c934eb4d6edd","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Of course parenting is tough. You just have to get through it."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"15e31f06b809","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"70c1ce23a546","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It happens to everyone."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cffaddffebf2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"11872037e2d6","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You’re just tired. Every parent gets tired – it comes with the territory."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b7be79137a3e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"269bcb9184be","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Just have a cup of tea and put your feet up – you’ll feel better."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"31bb67709362","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"59c678a2f291","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sleep will come, just give it time."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c8b898a34aa6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7e4fe215d00d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Yes, it’s stressful, but it’s also just so rewarding! (it may not be)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ce772b47e7d0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3e71dbef91e3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You’ll feel better once you get some sleep."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"03ac6a8934cf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"81927fb96816","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s hard for all parents, and you don’t hear everyone complaining, do you?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f43870d3c9fb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"816b775d8c70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Oh, lots of mums get by on much less sleep than you’re getting."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"069190ac2fe2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"34ddfeac2c35","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you confide in someone and feel their response minimises your feelings or experiences, or makes you feel ashamed or guilty, it’s important to continue to reach out for help. Every expecting or new parent deserves kindness, respect, and effective perinatal mental health care. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"953bf6a8ac53","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0421d7e0a5a6","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We encourage you to keep reaching out until you feel you’re being heard and supported."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"5c13efb1f8bf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1750c0a04982","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Managing unhelpful comments"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"89fc1f667f21","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6f12240407e9","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"358b27d71b46","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"52a4392081ec","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0da044381d2f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are many different services and health professionals that can help support your mental health. 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":"50cc2ad4d2e9","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","document":{"_ref":"3e9170da-2e0e-427f-a832-e5b31624df14","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"},"style":"box","text":"Learn more about talking to your doctor"}],"question":[{"_key":"10d6d580407f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f86c63acd5a7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Talking to your doctor"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"5618a09d8e0b","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"6ba124c5174f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"02bc5eb50b20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If a parent in your life confides in you that they’re having a hard time coping and are experiencing changes to their mental health such as distressing or overwhelming thoughts and feelings, some helpful responses include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ab07c53825fd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f91ed42a8705","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"That sounds really hard. I’m here to talk about whatever you want to talk about."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2076ecf93790","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"58039655744c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s okay to feel the way you are feeling. Can I help you find a professional who might be able to put together a support plan with you?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"903b99ba542f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"561d206fe606","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I know that perinatal mental health issues are way more common than most people think. You’re not alone and I’m here to support you."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9a9cbcbf6534","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4a4c8bb50855","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I care about you, and it seems like you’re having a super stressful time. I think talking with someone who is an expert in perinatal health could be really helpful."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f2648f8c2e61","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"db28fc161dbd","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Can I do something practical to help, like cook you a meal or watch the baby for an hour?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8ca310252a49","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9f4e4ed3ed74","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I’m going to check in on you tomorrow and see how you’re going. We’ll get through this together."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6622db86d77f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bf025864a1f8","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If someone tells you they aren’t coping with changes to their mental health, daily function or their ability to care for their baby by themselves, you should always take it seriously. Mental health is highly changeable during pregnancy and after having a baby, and can quickly escalate to an emergency, especially if left untreated. If someone tells you they are seriously afraid of harming themselves or someone else or is behaving in a way that is unusual, they may be experiencing postnatal psychosis. 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"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8a30cb5071a0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"42ce628253de0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you are finding it stressful or challenging to support your partner, help is available for you too."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bd1f8c405d65","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"46777b43c567","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9fea368db7a2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"844b1f18aba50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Impact on relationships and wellbeing"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"caac9ad89c58","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"572e57f6295c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal anxiety and depression can impact all areas of wellbeing: physical, emotional and social. Overwhelm, exhaustion, loss of confidence, fear of leaving the house or being with other people can all take its toll. Relationships with partners, family and friends can be impacted."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7928f58f3de9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"73179dba1797","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The longer a parent experiencing mental health issues goes without seeking treatment, the more likely it is that their partner may experience changes to their mental health too."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"863f1e9ffe56","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7aeabb510b710","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope due to changes in your mental health, it can be difficult to find the patience and energy to connect with babies, children and loved ones. It’s difficult to parent if you are feeling agitated, unsettled or lacking in motivation. This is why seeking help early is so important."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4532d64ad8a2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d77c74c6aed10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It can be an unexpected shock if your partner is struggling with symptoms of perinatal anxiety or depression. Our culture portrays the pregnancy, birth and the perinatal period as a time of joy and elation. Most new parents, even if they don’t experience mental health challenges, will experience some degree of fatigue, overwhelm, irritability, stress and worry as they adjust to life as a parent."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c32c9b8a7f2d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7098adda69dc","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f34dde481531","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ca3d9d28d9ae0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If your partner is experiencing mental health challenges during pregnancy or early parenthood, you might feel:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"50f4d3113349","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4d67260d8a600","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Confused or uncertain about what to say or do to help"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h5"},{"_key":"63bf3fb658ca","_type":"quote","quote":"I don’t know what to say in case I make things worse"},{"_key":"a4444d23af97","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"64581e12215c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Useless"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h5"},{"_key":"01ba69372a4b","_type":"quote","quote":"Nothing I say or do seems to help!"},{"_key":"2cca12465f2b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"045695b4fe830","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Frustrated and angry"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h5"},{"_key":"9c807f4cb55b","_type":"quote","quote":"Why are they being like this when I am trying so hard?"},{"_key":"60f111b97604","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dedd015523280","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Overwhelmed"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h5"},{"_key":"c12029d08f57","_type":"quote","quote":"It’s all too much"},{"_key":"9b5b342fc0c3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3b22e2b22fa50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Alienated"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h5"},{"_key":"4563647f9a55","_type":"quote","quote":"I have no idea how to relate to this experience."},{"_key":"ed5659ddf40c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"687030e220f50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Unsure about how or when to help"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h5"},{"_key":"b86a1289c4b4","_type":"quote","quote":"Am I interfering? Should I be helping more? Should I be letting them have space?"},{"_key":"86124c9b094d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1b452a8cf87b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A sense of loss"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h5"},{"_key":"b94848ea018f","_type":"quote","quote":"When is my partner going to be their ‘old self’?"},{"_key":"cca635ff54d9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dffd49b822fa0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A loss of support"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h5"},{"_key":"6bc667fb6afe","_type":"quote","quote":"My partner and I were so close. 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This ensures you’re in the best possible position to care for your partner and family during a challenging time."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"860a641e50cb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d466699692be0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Lots of parents feel uncertain about who they can talk to about what their partner is going through. We still have a long way to go to accepting mental health in the same way we deal with physical health. It’s a good idea to check in with your partner about how they feel about you telling other people. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a7e1b270cf9b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"75f3e248c17c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It can help to remember that perinatal anxiety and/or depression are common. 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While you can’t “fix” what your partner is going through, you can support them while they seek help and receive treatment. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"1e5f0309cad3","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"2ce7c5e1300d","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"931c145d6b01","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"28b5c5aef0910","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This might mean getting up to do night feeds, nappy changes and settling. 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When you call, your call will be answered by a counsellor, or you may be asked to leave us a message during peak times."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2ad286e2501a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c21008e4220b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"In every call you have with PANDA, we listen to your story. Everyone’s parenthood journey is unique, and we want to know about you and your experience."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f0ad9db91b41","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c01378ab67180","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We provide you with a reassuring, confidential space for you to talk openly and honestly about your thoughts, feelings and experiences around pregnancy and parenthood. Together, we’ll explore what supports you currently have in place and whether you’d benefit from any others."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"38c41d32853e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9d629d9c6e3d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA can help find you the support you need. You and your PANDA counsellor will develop a care plan together including referrals, ideas and strategies that will help support you."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9e72183b982c","_type":"quote","quote":"I spoke with a PANDA counsellor and felt a huge weight lift off my shoulders. It was the first step on my road to recovery."}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"brightTeal60","value":"#86DECF"},"headline":"What happens when I call the PANDA Helpline? ","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"illustration of mum on phone while holding her baby","asset":{"_ref":"image-885b5eb38f693819a76ea74c94d8b89f2fdcb163-5001x5001-png","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"ed109e5eafa1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e57a343822c30","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you call PANDA, we’ll provide a safe, caring and confidential space for you to talk through any concerns you may have as an expecting or new parent, or support person."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"cd72814a0a50","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"ce20058466ce","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"d578f70320eb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"324f85351a0a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Most people call PANDA to seek support for themselves. But we also receive calls from partners, family, friends and health professionals."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f9ae8bfca5ec","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"49f639d6cbfb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you call, you’ll have a confidential and supportive space to talk through your feelings. We’ll listen, share practical information and provide helpful resources. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6904d3b5e147","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ff8e01427526","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sharing your story with someone who understands what you are going through can be a relief, and a reassuring step in your parenting journey."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"55aa6637af5b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fbe63d2772b30","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some people call because they are finding the transition to parenting tricky. Others call because they’re concerned they may be experiencing symptoms of perinatal anxiety or depression."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0323bdd23345","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2bd25471bbbb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some of the common concerns we hear are:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"47af9e1dde8d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1cfd759144210","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I don’t know what’s going on, but I just don’t feel like myself."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"24a5b0750ccd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"401ca5d055620","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I’m so tired all the time. I don’t know how much longer I can keep doing this."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2d5a44940899","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"955797f2584f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I can’t stop thinking about the birth. It was nothing like what I had planned."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"32afe61f77a8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"662bae49fdda0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I just yelled at my toddler. I hate this, I’m not being the parent I want to be."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"87fa4ba10609","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ad7b3988b8d10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I don’t enjoy being a parent. I feel so guilty and ashamed."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7c91aa595fbd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"06a3a00035ad0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I’m struggling in my relationship... everything has changed since the birth of my baby."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"46580fb5f6f6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c930a9c7e8000","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I’m not sure I should be having this baby, and I’m not sure if I want to."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ab4791e26765","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3a0273387a8c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I had thoughts of driving into a tree this morning and it scared me. I need help."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"9928177a5b06","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"62c5ab7316e7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Why would I call PANDA? "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"8fab9f4acfc3","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"296a531f8485","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"435a662f4f7b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Everyone who calls PANDA is trying to make sense of unfamiliar thoughts and feelings. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ff631aeba3b8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"13f438a9c625","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You don’t need a referral or a diagnosis of perinatal mental illness to call PANDA. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9a8046cb8331","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0a033de35487","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We don’t provide you with a diagnosis – that’s not our role. We’ll help you understand what’s happening for you and your family. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2eb9d21f4113","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"40c7cb85fbcf","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We’ll listen to what you think might be helpful and provide information and support options for you to consider."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"1c025fea9e25","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1e1301d37c48","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do I need a referral or diagnosis to call PANDA? "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"1ecb985c5b78","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"7fb1247f7da5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e2274380b9890","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you call the PANDA helpline, you may hear a recording talking about PANDA services. This means that you are in the queue to speak with one of our counsellors.You might hear a recording asking if you’d like to leave a message for us with your contact details. We encourage you to do this, as leaving us a message holds your place in the queue and we’ll call you back as soon as a counsellor becomes available."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4f9551d49bf1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dbdd735779a60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you speak to one of counsellors, we'll ask you for some basic contact details and ask a few questions about what prompted you to call the Helpline. We’ll also ask about your own and your baby’s safety and wellbeing. While you can choose to remain anonymous, most of our callers prefer to share their contact details, especially if we’re helping you to find community-based supports in your area."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4185d7d15248","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"77d2f8d201370","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Our counsellors will encourage you to tell us your story. We want to understand what you are concerned about and how it is affecting you and your family.We want to know how we can help you."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"80ed84952b47","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6df1416f19e40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s important to know that our counsellors are respectful and compassionate towards all our callers, whatever their background, nationality, beliefs or sexuality. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ed2b10fb8f22","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"169c60954388","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA’s Helpline service is a safe and secure place to disclose personal details."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"6cbbfed564d5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"633e2dc5ba98","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What happens when I call PANDA? "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"114e8c7b2cc5","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"1b19792ae908","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a28337c6c3080","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"After the first call, it’s up to you whether you would like to continue to receive telephone counselling support. PANDA offers a follow up service aimed to support you as you navigate your new parenting role and relationship changes. Our follow up service includes the option of being supported by one of our skilled, compassionate and dedicated peer support volunteers who all have lived experience of perinatal mental health. You can read more about our Peer Support Program "},{"_key":"a032d3cae82c","_type":"span","marks":["c0a3f2a7bb8f"],"text":"here"},{"_key":"e417bb46e84c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"c0a3f2a7bb8f","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"11f4f6c2-331f-48ff-84f8-640cf425f518","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a7aa0637d8e5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b449998235100","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Follow up calls include a range of supports:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2ec129a95973","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dc4b75b7fa7d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We can keep talking about the issues that matter to you."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0fb3b94104d2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c2bbffe8bb380","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We can explore new strategies to manage thoughts, feelings, parenting and relationships."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e102a3a102a0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8265012a31a10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We can help you connect with services in your community."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b17ee54e718f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"325a70e7512e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Every day we hear of the many obstacles our callers face when trying to access the right help at the right time. Our role is to help you overcome these obstacles. You can stay connected with us until you are feeling able to manage without the additional support. You can call PANDA again at any time."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"06c0147f5e4c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b45f67131480","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Does PANDA offer follow up calls? "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"e82ceb88815a","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"6837b1ae5152","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"aefe6c0ef0160","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA has interpreters available to support those who speak a language other than English or have a hearing or speech impairment. When you call, please press “1” to let us know you need an interpreter."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"2b8080bb2b1d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1176d30ce6bb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Does PANDA offer interpreters? "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"65486593fc7b","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"af014a779b12","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0bfc6a758b490","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Any information you share with PANDA will be treated as confidential unless there are serious concerns for the safety of you or someone else.If there are safety concerns, we’ll need to engage support to help keep you and your loved ones safe."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"85dbf5cdb8a8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"10b70af8312e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We’ll make every effort to work together with you in this process. All calls to the PANDA Helpline are recorded (unless you would prefer us to switch call recording off) and notes will be made of your conversation. These are stored in PANDA’s secure client record system to ensure confidentiality."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"600f1fdd7b63","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","linkType":"internal"},"style":"arrow","text":"Your rights and responsibilities"}],"question":[{"_key":"c6bfa3d41202","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8b5924796b04","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Are calls to PANDA confidential? "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"50f1b91da61e","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"ce0adf8d9102","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d66053dcf4ad0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The Helpline is open:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"010222703375","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d023b4c593590","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"9am - 7:30pm Monday - Friday"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a7e1dbc30f39","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2ff531fefa450","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"9am - 4pm on Saturdays and public holidays."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"a77428c259ca","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a7ef351e2d57","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When is the Helpline available?"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"title":"Common questions about the PANDA Helpline"},{"_key":"b1de85eba998","_type":"storyCollection","eyebrow":"Stories"},{"_key":"28a428fe00d2","_type":"helpLine","field":"content"}],"relatedArticles":[{"_key":"5b4aa5853545","_ref":"b769769d-ee6c-42d0-9dfe-8b41e1625715","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"d4f2162bfa93","_ref":"3e9170da-2e0e-427f-a832-e5b31624df14","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"0ae4e863315c","_ref":"2488aec7-6b00-4156-aa87-dc3a61d8c19d","_type":"reference"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"When you call PANDA, we provide a safe, caring and confidential space for you to talk, as an expecting or new parent, or support person. 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","id":"-3f4ac0c9-6628-5c97-adc3-f5fc7ed6effe","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"db8968a301c569a6710ef76be83fb5be","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":126},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"what-happens-when-i-call-the-panda-helpline"}}},{"_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. 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safety plan can’t guarantee that someone will be safe from suicide – but using a safety plan can decrease the likelihood someone will progress from suicidal ideation to action."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4f746fa54b57","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3cf8334ab08b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Research suggests that "},{"_key":"4d0ac2a971fb","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"suicide safety plans created in collaboration with healthcare providers may be more effective"},{"_key":"55b158fe2343","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":", and used more often, than a safety plan someone creates by themselves."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f2721913c175","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8105ca14e1cf0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s common practice to create a suicide safety plan after someone has experienced a suicide attempt or crisis. To reduce the risk of suicide, you can pre-emptively create a mental health safety plan with any parent in your care who is concerned about their mental health, including thoughts of suicide. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1e29512cfa39","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1d0f481ecda00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you’re helping the person to complete their safety plan, consider using a free app like "},{"_key":"1d0f481ecda01","_type":"span","marks":["4fb53cc0e316"],"text":"BeyondNow"},{"_key":"1d0f481ecda02","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":", so they have access to their suicide safety plan on their phone. "}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"4fb53cc0e316","_type":"link","href":"https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/beyondnow-suicide-safety-planning","linkType":"external","url":"https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/beyondnow-suicide-safety-planning"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b11ca6177a9d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"496b06970a750","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Perinatal practice tip"},{"_key":"6676cd109893","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":": Whether you’re providing support in pregnancy to someone with older children, or postnatal support to the parent of a newborn, always include babies and older children in each parent’s personalised safety plan. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2023-11-12","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"teal100","value":"#236D6D"},"headline":"Creating a strengths-based suicide safety plan","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Woman looking confused standing in a puddle","asset":{"_ref":"image-7a14cddd133e5e392adb22142a9eb8266e71d153-3334x3334-png","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"08f42e867628","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c810e1db01260","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Support expecting and new parents in your care to manage their mental health with this suicide safety 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This includes warning signs linked to parenting activities and/or baby’s behaviour, like when their baby is unsettled and crying."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"9287972b2467","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e2c7a20e45a40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Step One: Recognising personal warning signs and triggers."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"b83e846b5896","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"53ef51d61750","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a65d4504f68f0","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"Things I can do when I’m by myself (and with my baby) to keep myself safe."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6305ae382130","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7ba6e79194ed","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5bdf1fbe0a74","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"077d2a7e831b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Explore how "},{"_key":"43c99809b7c4","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"easy and practical"},{"_key":"78e95cca3980","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" these strategies are, including any barriers to the person using them when in crisis. For example, ‘popping bub in their pram and going for a walk’ is a coping strategy but may not be practical or safe at 3am."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"37ba9cac7b37","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"02a3c60dc0170","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"A range of activities here might include: "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"aab9c42ed1bc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"de95b4f53fc10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Listening to music."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1601199effc0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"39b452b3db3a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Taking a shower."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"610b24ba5f3d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ad1d1e5d74130","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Exercise or gentle movement, like a free online yoga class."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8622ad66041b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"64a034f9949a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Gardening or going for a nature walk."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"18a43269233a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"286ea9df2cf40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Drawing or other crafty activities."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"31b3efa6a994","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"63beeb74f8630","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Deep breathing and/or guided meditation."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"81a41ca69e23","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0cec21408d8b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Playing with their baby and older children."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f6ef1936515f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"65264e5b2f2e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If activities with baby feel challenging or distressing, keep the focus on what the person can do for themselves, for now. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"3dcbffde3cb0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5eda56f06c750","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Step Two: Internal coping strategies"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"32977e301bc1","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"55d30bf73fe4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0f72769251a80","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"Who can I contact, and where can I go to distract myself from the distress I’m feeling?"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ea7f8b81c5ad","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3f15a64453e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4b90d8af13dd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3274b30075c10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Have the person think of "},{"_key":"4cbed93c4b5c","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"people or places that could provide a welcome distraction"},{"_key":"2e95fc5293a7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" from suicidal distress, including people who can provide respite care for babies/children."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e750d59cbe98","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0cf7194d5a770","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Possibilities include but are not limited to: "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8c31a0ace5bd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"610f5861832e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Family and friends."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7a6a2a16d234","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6450fc63db030","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A local or online parents’ support group."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"64c6cbfdcf0c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6fd2c01e11620","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Local gym and its creche service."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6054b5950284","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0ad52fe997ee0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Parks and community centres."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6c674ca4f4e4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2d67d521a45c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Library, including sessions for parents and bubs."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"417c057e5b63","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"30912c36bc120","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s good to include people for day and night-time support, and consider whether support might be online, via phone, or in person. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"c56d2be18d17","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"31478d7ebcea0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Step Three: Social support"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"7272a59d86ad","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"3589be1991ef","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"30b6c1e5beba0","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"Who can I contact if I don’t feel safe being alone with thoughts of 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