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    "result": {"data":{"sanityArticle":{"title":"Perinatal suicide: Signs, safety and support options","_type":"article","datePublished":"5 April 2022","header":{"background":{"value":"#FFA688"},"headline":"Perinatal suicide: Signs, safety and support options","text":[{"_key":"312246410162","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a440038e41580","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Thoughts of suicide are common during pregnancy and early parenthood. You don’t need to deal with them alone though – specialist help is available."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-7a14cddd133e5e392adb22142a9eb8266e71d153-3334x3334-png"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":null}},"content":[{"_key":"2574dfd5a3cf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"656fdb0af38b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Talking about suicide is brave. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"550b99b86da3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8ce40f1d1392","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It takes courage to admit to someone else that you’re feeling distressed or overwhelmed, and not coping as well as usual. Many expecting and new parents report feelings of isolation, shame and self-blame when they’re having thoughts of suicide. This can stop people from reaching out for support when they need it the most.\n\nIn Australia, suicide is a leading cause of maternal death during pregnancy and the first year after birth. Emerging research suggests fathers and non-birthing parents are also at increased risk of experiencing thoughts of suicide during the transition to parenthood.\n\nPANDA is committed to having conversations about suicide prevention and risk management in the perinatal period. It’s essential that expecting and new parents can speak openly and honestly about how they’re feeling, and access effective support to help manage distressing thoughts and feelings as soon as possible."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"184bdea01d1f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1360c90aeb4d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"\n"},{"_key":"ccce7d67b699","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Talking about suicide doesn’t increase the risk that someone will attempt to take their own life – but it can increase safety by reducing feelings of isolation and hopelessness."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1b6468acf3f3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d7deb96db034","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d3308b5d16d2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8f9912066314","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Providing space for someone to talk openly about feeling suicidal is an opportunity for:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1b9c284a3a1e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0d5b79447890","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Connection"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4e9b95258d76","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e90900beb200","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Reassurance"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cec8c2c41029","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a63ede044226","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Safe support"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d7260d0ccb90","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ce718d1084cc","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Hope for change"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"95db960099ba","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"40db9ceab9ce","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Thoughts of suicide are common during pregnancy and the first year of a baby’s life. On the PANDA Helpline, we provide over 40,000 counselling calls to expecting and new parents and their support people every year. We offer suicide prevention support in around 20% of those calls.\n\nThat’s 1 in 5 people needing support from PANDA to talk about suicide. Some people are experiencing thoughts of suicide themselves and reaching out for help. Other people want to know how they can support a loved one in distress.\n\nOur Helpline counsellors are experienced and comfortable in talking about suicide. We understand that people are often nervous about sharing frightening thoughts and feelings. Our counsellors create a caring, nonjudgmental space for you to discuss your concerns.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"28e1964be325","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7951bb9f45bc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We’ll work together with you to create a personalised mental health safe plan to help manage distress, including ways to cope with thoughts of suicide."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f09034cba882","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_id":"0dd44d32-f29c-4ed4-b700-c1b55dfbb570","_type":"article","_rev":"wOo252sIOQQ29dCH6ugnlG","_createdAt":"2022-02-14T07:27:37Z","_updatedAt":"2024-01-08T04:49:06Z","categories":[{"_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":"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}],"content":[{"_key":"cf9ab8067adb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7a26732ea8500","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The PANDA National Helpline is available 9am – 7:30pm AEST, but we’re not a crisis service. We understand that it’s often the early hours of the morning when our callers are feeling overwhelmed, unable to cope, and need support services they can access for immediate help."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"745bc224fc5d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1f0ba379f1dd0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Below are two mental health safe plans that can be used any time of the day or night."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7f17a2fea1a4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a136da2ffb120","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The first safe plan is for you if you’re having a hard time coping. There’s also a safe plan for people who are caring for a loved one experiencing mental health difficulties."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a02ba8b009a3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0b041dfc97970","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We encourage you to share your safe plan with anyone that’s supporting you. 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Learn about mental health safe plans you can use day or night."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"5730cbb1c899","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"ab48739001be","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"544027c04c4c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5dbf04bb559b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This Mental Health Safe Plan was created for you to use whenever you need some extra support. 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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 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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 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Ask the person what they might use to hurt themselves in a moment of crisis. Work with the person (and their support people if appropriate) to remove or restrict access to lethal means of suicide around the home. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d7edb5089542","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d1f12cd7fb1c0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Environmental safety can also extend beyond the home"},{"_key":"f64185b8972e","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":". The person may plan to avoid certain places (bridges, train stations) when in crisis. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"10c8cc838329","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3d09e43ce5610","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Step Six: Environmental safety"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"title":"A strong safety plan includes these six steps"},{"_key":"cfacb565b0f2","_type":"freeText","text":[{"_key":"96745ea206e1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"49c2f091d9b30","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Safety plans can change and evolve with time."},{"_key":"0b7ab4ee1ee3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"f6af998db4ee","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"eb6cb6410ceb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e0ebd2c4172f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0bae5cb62a61","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s a good idea to review them periodically to 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anxiety and depression can affect any person and their family, regardless of culture, age, or socio-economic situation. 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"},{"_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. 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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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You may feel shame because you aren't coping with their new baby, or guilt because you feel frustrated and resentful. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4595934cddc6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1cf4a9fc69dd","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Recognise that the arrival of a baby can trigger many complex thoughts and feelings including a sense of loss for your ‘old’ self or life. 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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? 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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. 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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? 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We support people throughout pregnancy up until their baby is 12 months old."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1463798405d2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"44efa594b966","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The Helpline is open:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4a5af61332f3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"617630b27a71","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"9am - 7:30pm Monday - Friday"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0ac998d761d2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"29158c50f2b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"9am - 4pm on Saturdays and public holidays."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6eda82b888f2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a5c542d387550","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cbed3109d51e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"50d268c87adc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The Helpline provides a safe and confidential space for any expecting or new parent needing support with the challenges of becoming a parent."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fbb60b1c5008","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"765b6f01d2820","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7a036a332838","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d164816256f00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We also speak to concerned support people who want information on caring for someone experiencing challenges during the transition to parenthood, including:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"efc4c879fb1c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"40ac75a2260d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Partners"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0a47604e8715","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4bee0f8251210","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Family and friends"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1371f2c24c34","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e8d83d9c8abb0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Health professionals"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"77af4b7b5adb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c175c96746af0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Many people in the Australian community don’t know about the signs and symptoms of perinatal anxiety and depression, or where to turn for support. The PANDA Helpline can help you identify what kind of care you need and where to find it."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a4ef46be1a9a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"56be8949aef9","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Free counselling, support, information and referral"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"937c694a1d45","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a781c581ba780","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Our highly trained and caring counsellors help you work through your concerns by providing a safe, confidential space to talk openly and honestly about your thoughts, feelings and experiences."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b42aaa408d77","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"234f0f98fd5e","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We’re here to help you:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5a3760251ae3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4d74de73606f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Make sense of what you or your loved one is experiencing during the transition to parenthood."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6847613fee4e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"873009728c6b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Identify your current coping skills and strengths as an expecting or new parent, or support person."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"772cf08757ab","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"87ad519f16280","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Explore a range of perinatal mental health and wellbeing care strategies."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b3901da58575","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3c8088d126f40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Understand the support and treatment options available for expecting and new parents."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"950809a0842e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6c53bef5dafe0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Link in with community-based perinatal supports in your area."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a97549c705d3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"23c00fcd28e3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You don’t need to be experiencing a crisis to reach out to PANDA. We speak to callers about a broad range of issues that come up during pregnancy and early parenthood."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1834282b388a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f1c9d29f3438","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some examples of what we often talk about on the Helpline are below, but please know that whatever’s on your mind, no matter what it is – we're here to listen and help."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"42687be11d74","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"569d19f65350","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Common concerns people call PANDA about include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d999dee4bee7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f649330dde670","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Changes to mental health, emotional wellbeing, or daily function."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6825be0d2774","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2349027008ad0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Bonding and attachment during pregnancy or with your baby."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"77445322cdf6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"03fcd0405a480","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Trying to process a pregnancy or birth that didn’t go as planned."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"45d213b879bb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ac0f40ebf7b10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Parenting challenges."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6f3d84f69f0b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7bc763877af90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Changes to self-identity and/or relationships."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cfb899afd9d8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1e26dfd027510","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Caring for someone else and wanting to know how you can best support them."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5b01f14b3792","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dc31eda895f5","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We encourage you to reach out to PANDA for support at any stage of your perinatal journey, and for any reason. We know you’re the expert in your own life, and we’re always guided by what you think you need for yourself and your family. Together, we’ll explore which support options might be most helpful.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"406ca67a089b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f0a4415f8d6d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Reaching out is the first step"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"ba7b7329b8ab","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a9a6c4289eba0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re experiencing changes to your mental health that are impacting your wellbeing, relationships and daily function, PANDA is here to support you. We know that the sooner you seek help, the more quickly you can recover."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"dda73e0b8523","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4ea8b845abe9","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Many people who feel like they need help may delay telling their loved ones and health professionals - or feel unsure about where to start looking for support."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"277f29f23423","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f07984e83452","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It takes trust and courage to confide in someone that you’re having a hard time. Often callers tell us there’s lots of expectation they’ll be feeling joy and excitement at this time of life, when the reality is so different. Feelings of sadness, confusion, frustration and shame can make it hard to reach out and tell anyone you’re not coping in the way you’d hoped."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"df975c5d7b33","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8be7b67f1b4f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some people are concerned about talking to health professionals (like their doctor or child and family health nurse) about what they’re experiencing as an expecting or new parent, for fear of judgement or their concerns being dismissed. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5055aef51ad8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cf000f15ea31","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Having open and honest conversations about your mental health can feel overwhelming and difficult to do. Yet every day our callers tell us it’s such a relief to talk to someone who cares - and know that you no longer need to keep trying to manage everything on your own."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"10ae8f3faefc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c60a88c9daf60","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Taking that first step to tell someone you need support is the fastest route to recovery."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d3ea7c1a7885","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4d53e44268120","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Our Helpline counsellors can help you work through any concerns you have - including talking to your loved ones and health professionals. Together we’ll explore ways to start having conversations about your mental health and emotional wellbeing with the people who care for you. We can also help you to link in with any additional supports you may need."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"brightTeal20","value":"#E1F9F7"},"headline":"PANDA’s National Perinatal Mental Health Helpline","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Mum holding baby and on the phone","asset":{"_ref":"image-885b5eb38f693819a76ea74c94d8b89f2fdcb163-5001x5001-png","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"ac98a523f989","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1247996edc380","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We’re here to help expecting and new parents and their support people during the transition to parenthood."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"65d92aaca93d","_type":"video","text":[{"_key":"55e753d942b8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"89ff58f7cab20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Becoming pregnant or having a baby can be both exciting and challenging. 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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. 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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. 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Which do you think are best for me?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"29499fa2c097","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f88a2e215afc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What are possible side effects of any medications?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8c5c37f91fd5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ff7d9457d7b10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"How much better might I feel, and how soon?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"785afab243a2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"754e2b27ec420","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Who are you referring me to? What do they do? How much will it cost? If I have private health insurance, will it be covered? (also check your policy)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"52a13d009398","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9711d2285d470","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Are there other ways that I can care for myself?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1059035e92d4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f9cd51760cd20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Can you talk with my other health care providers about shared care? (e.g. obstetrician, midwife, Maternal and Child Health/Child and Family Health Nurse)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"77e4e12946dd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"01336c0ee6de0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor can refer you to services like counsellors, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers and occupational therapists. They might give you a mental health care plan, which gives you some Medicare rebates to help you access counselling. For a higher level of care, they might refer you to a Mother Baby Unit — a hospital unit where you stay with your baby — or to another hospital-based psychiatric service."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"5e39c53e4e16","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6e7d757729f3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Questions to ask"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"0fe6884d9fa5","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"a0f34745db53","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a2c2141ba0ce0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Not all doctors have the same experience, confidence or qualifications in supporting patients with mental health issues. If the first doctor you see doesn’t help you enough, please don’t give up. You have a right to get the support you need, to feel better and enjoy your parenting journey."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"11105b443a24","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d722bb40d5090","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Call the PANDA National Helpline any time: to find a doctor or other service, for supportive counselling, or to discuss other support options like playgroups or support groups. You can call for yourself or about someone else you are concerned about."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"31a628481730","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f1f0b7bb1fe4","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you don't get what you need"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"55f55b8dc810","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"27705a63f8eb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7dea9d64d2d30","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you need urgent help before your appointment, call emergency services on triple zero (000) or go to your local hospital emergency department. The symptoms and severity of mental illness can sometimes change quickly. Don’t hesitate to seek urgent help if needed."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5edf7645473e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"693b5731952c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You can call the PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline for support and ongoing counselling on 1300 726 306, Monday to Friday, 9am to 7.30pm AEST/ADST. You can call about yourself or someone else."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"00f3c1bfa15b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b740844eb25f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you need someone to talk with outside PANDA’s hours, call Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467, Suicide Line on 1300 651 251, or Lifeline on 131114."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"ee768dd29217","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e5933b44caca","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you feel worse"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"text":[{"_key":"c360ec98f5bf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"684a02e0b0a60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"People often forget things that they wanted to tell or ask their doctor during their appointment. It can be helpful to prepare by writing a list of your symptoms, concerns, and questions."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"title":"Prepare for the appointment"},{"_key":"5e8b1caa6593","_type":"fileCollection","files":[{"_key":"c5748ae691a4","_type":"download","background":{"title":"peach40","value":"#FFE4C9"},"cta":"Download","file":{"_type":"file","asset":{"_ref":"file-bec93bd9eb58ae8f35d03b5767093abeb1effd70-pdf","_type":"reference"}},"title":"Talking to your doctor"}],"title":"Factsheets"},{"_key":"f7e660518986","_type":"checklist","field":"content"},{"_key":"780165dc53a5","_type":"helpLine","field":"content"}],"relatedArticles":[{"_key":"d47730980313","_ref":"4af3f3dd-21d7-45c9-b150-2cae7e53c7e9","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"334300bb2126","_ref":"6db1ae16-57eb-45a1-9f7f-e53fd09a8427","_type":"reference"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"Tips on finding a doctor, sharing your concerns and what to expect from a consultation.","metaTitle":"Talking to your doctor","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-edcabb975680e1848598b04a6a7ca8809c9fe916-1200x630-png","_type":"reference"}}},"sidebarPosts":[{"_key":"03d97dabb92a","_ref":"a1329df5-57c4-454b-8c52-b34451c438ee","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"d1a03409be84","_ref":"50f65345-d46c-4cda-a886-b7bcc3567248","_type":"reference"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"talking-to-your-doctor"},"tags":[{"_key":"cbd98d59e44e","_ref":"2df7e53e-9ef7-4ed8-aabe-1623b28de6ec","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"31ba9b178809","_ref":"49993bd9-e417-4743-b155-591d0a496a77","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"05deaeda4ed0","_ref":"98c6d929-2d8d-4cbb-9cfe-13d53cdcb7ad","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Talking to your doctor","id":"-592aeba9-9c48-5c33-9b43-5b33c564b821","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"4f877d2f8eea899d6bff1d47cd41ccbd","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":165},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"talking-to-your-doctor"}}},{"_id":"2488aec7-6b00-4156-aa87-dc3a61d8c19d","_type":"article","_rev":"nVChg1sqNoY7wI6dwf9bIu","_createdAt":"2022-02-14T07:40:13Z","_updatedAt":"2024-04-10T23:13:20Z","categories":[{"_key":"ddbd59f9ea4a","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"}],"content":[{"_key":"d25f5fa9b2be","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a12e40e003140","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Many new parents downplay mental health issues for fear of unwanted outcomes when they reach out for help. Some fear having their baby placed into care by child protective services if they tell anyone they’re not coping at home or they are experiencing family violence and fear for their own and their baby’s safety. Not telling anyone what’s happening and trying to manage everything by yourself can make the situation even more difficult to handle, and often increases the risk to you and your baby. Acknowledging you need help (and telling someone) doesn’t mean you are an unsafe or ‘bad’ parent."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"906d0156c434","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e17f0a17bf59","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Seeking mental health help and/or family violence support early is being a safe and protective parent."},{"_key":"9723caf5c54d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" You’re being the best possible parent you can be for your baby by taking the necessary steps to feel better and keep yourself and your baby safe. PANDA is here to help you to care for yourself and your baby in ways that feel supportive, safe, and aligned with your personal parenting values."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5ab0350cf5cb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a30d0a4d2a0b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Hiding or downplaying symptoms of emotional and mental health distress or concerns about family violence can prevent you from accessing the help you need to look after your wellbeing and family’s safety. Feelings of isolation and stress can increase if nobody knows what’s really happening for you. Minimising what you’re experiencing can also get in the way of parenting the way you’d hoped to do."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"238262fb1c5e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"159a7d751371","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","headline":"Child Protection: Helpful information for parents","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"baby bathing","asset":{"_ref":"image-d7d8265b93aeae0031e16fba848ea0fe73045542-2400x1596-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"d1e78d145a71","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9539088974350","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s normal for new parents to have concerns about what might happen when they reach out for help. Talking to PANDA about your mental health and any issues at home is being a protective parent. We can help you access the support you and your baby need."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"867c3fd4a98f","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"b78634889814","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"5f0b722684e2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dfefe36b0a5b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We take our obligation to protect you and your baby - and keep you safe - very seriously. We always listen to your needs and thoughts on what might be helpful. We believe you’re the expert on your own life, and we know that you’re doing your best to keep yourself and your baby safe. Sometimes new parents need some extra mental health and parenting support. We’re here to work with you and figure out what the best supports are for your family."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"83ff02bc51a8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"19323dddabce","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes, families need extra support like parenting support, relationship and family violence services or child protection. Any decision to contact child protection for a family we’re supporting on our Helpline is made with utmost care and caution."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d1c2c81dd9ab","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"00686afabd6e","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We’re dedicated to client-centred and trauma-informed care on our Helpline."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5d4e08c1c5d9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6efdc93829fc","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This approach to mental health support means you and your baby’s wellbeing are at the heart of every call, including any decisions regarding your safety and care needs."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"9c3734aebc50","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e79e4a32bca80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA is committed to ensuring the emotional, physical and mental wellbeing of you, your baby and your family."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"d4f33e121f35","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"673c88835846","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"725aca8065c10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We speak to thousands of new parents every year on the PANDA Helpline who are experiencing difficult emotions having scary thoughts or experiencing family violence."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3aa55eb03a5b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"718fbf515edb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Often, our callers feel they’re failing at parenting by not meeting their own expectations of themselves as parents. They worry that if they tell us what’s happening at home, PANDA will call child protection and safety services. Some parents who call us are already linked in with intensive family support or child protection services. Feelings such as shame, fear or even despair can build up and feel hard to control, and difficult to share with someone else."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"694e171c83b4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7c4b2b63d867","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some of our callers express intense fear that if they speak up about these experiences, a report to child protective services will be made automatically. Often, there can also be negative associations with protective services contributing to feelings of fear and uncertainty about speaking up. This may be due to multi-generational trauma in families who have had previous experiences within historic welfare systems."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e3d48cdfd1cb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3cd577c01864","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"In particular, our callers who come from a migrant and refugee background and have a history of trauma, and our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander callers who have Stolen Generation trauma in their family frequently express fears about their children being removed from their care."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e329de2e82f8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a4a0ea53956c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Callers often tell us they have fears about child safety and protective service involvement with their family. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a867317f868f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e7ede35e5c4c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"They tell us things like:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4e81a6eec93a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3f525c2b4e9a0","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"“I’ve been having these awful thoughts lately, but I’m scared to tell you what they are.”"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"230219571f95","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7f41689875110","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"“I don’t want anyone to think I’d actually hurt myself or my baby. I’m worried they’ll take my baby away if I say anything.”"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"303dcea05dcd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9c3377ffab5a0","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"“I don’t want anyone to think I’m a bad person, especially my partner or someone like my GP.”"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"816b9e52573b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ffad6fa7712b0","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"\"I don’t want them to break our family up. He’s a really good dad most of the "},{"_key":"c5cebd371d20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"time."},{"_key":"6fd6fb5698c0","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"\""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cacfddaa3fff","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9a9482da9d160","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"“If I contact child protection about my concerns, I’m worried what my family’s reaction will be.”"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f0a2a65608a3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9391188bb2e20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e0d988fb4f24","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ab3a8aa8237a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We know from what we hear on the PANDA Helpline that people think babies being placed into care by protective services is much more common than it is."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9fecc8480976","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a7501237bf3d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Experiencing changes to your mental health, like symptoms of perinatal anxiety or depression, having a mental health diagnosis, or not coping with daily life and parenting, "},{"_key":"0b0571f02721","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"does not make you an unfit parent."},{"_key":"c03580006690","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" It just means you need some extra support, something common to everyone at some point in their parenting journey."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c2dea181060e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"93d0cd170d3d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s normal for new parents to have difficulty adjusting to change during the perinatal period. It’s also common for new parents to experience mental health issues. Having a hard time with the transition to parenthood does not make someone a bad or unsafe parent. It makes you human."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"54de1289a2e6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fd84742f0d030","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You and your baby deserve help, love, kindness and care when things feel tough or overwhelming. PANDA is here when you feel ready to explore some support options together."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c4b4e6f32e92","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3c5182900347","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9eaedd27aad6","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.sttars.org.au"},"style":"arrow","text":"Visit Supporting Survivors of Trauma"},{"_key":"81c3d323b15d","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://healingfoundation.org.au/intergenerational-trauma/"},"style":"arrow","text":"Visit Healing Foundation"}],"question":[{"_key":"bbf273c665a6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6d96edda44c5","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Is it common to worry about Child Protection involvement when talking to health professionals?"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"3fd0d90f965f","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"4e17823e1c0b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c7f50355f98c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Our Helpline counsellors often speak to expecting and new parents experiencing mental health issues and family violence at home. Some callers tell us that their partner or ex has suggested that a parent having mental health issues will always lead to child protection being involved, and babies being removed from their parent’s care. This is simply untrue."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bd8049334b75","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"669982aa1afc","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"As we mentioned before, "},{"_key":"de5787777387","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"seeking mental health or family violence support for yourself is being a safe and protective parent."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ab3f36a5247b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"27c04b4f0e96","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA callers experiencing family violence may also be concerned that if they talk to PANDA about their mental health or speak to a family violence service, their partner will find out."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8c701dfa58d4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cf34b026e48b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Our callers sometimes feel scared that being honest about their mental health challenges will be used against them at some point, for instance in family law court. Often, we hear that scare tactics about child removal and custody issues have been used repeatedly over time by their partner or others. Some callers start to believe that if they admit to anyone that they’re not coping, a child protection report will be made, and their children immediately removed from their care. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"841870a5dde1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e869342dbdb2","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"These beliefs are based on manipulation and fear, not fact."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"97584a6de55a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"394074044ae40","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3ae4f5b7dc49","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"48813ee67c1a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some Helpline callers also say they feel responsible for the family violence they are experiencing. They often tell us that their partner or others have even said they’re behaving in abusive or unsafe ways because of the caller’s mental health issues. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2e2a3cf922f8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"91b05acd9f86","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There is never any justification for anyone to make you feel fearful or unsafe because you’re experiencing changes to your mental health. "},{"_key":"fdd52b3639e5","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Family violence is never your fault."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"32feb66038b8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a5f3e7f378640","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c209346392f1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"01e49475fe820","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sharing with PANDA’s counsellors that you or your baby are unsafe due to family violence is being a protective parent by seeking support for yourself and your child. PANDA will always put the safety of you and your baby first, and we’ll work with you to explore all the different specialist support options that are available. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3342b9a30b43","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4c7d8a29bdcc","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0713f03aff08","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.1800respect.org.au/help-and-support"},"style":"arrow","text":"Visit 1800Respect"},{"_key":"b3ac31507013","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://relationships.org.au/ "},"style":"arrow","text":"Visit Relationships Australia"},{"_key":"14dc82020dc5","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.familyrelationships.gov.au/talk-someone/advice-line"},"style":"arrow","text":"Visit Family Relationship Advice Line"}],"question":[{"_key":"f666e68ba206","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"702b624307280","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Family violence and mental health issues"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"4380bccb49cf","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"f50e456f7b5f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"76132e5145c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Depending on where you live, child protective services may be known by a different name in your state:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f463d1b3595d","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.communityservices.act.gov.au/ocyfs/children/child-and-youth-protection-services"},"style":"arrow","text":"ACT – Child and Youth Protection Services"},{"_key":"e2138d611a99","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.facs.nsw.gov.au/families"},"style":"arrow","text":"NSW – Family and Community Services (FACS, previously known as DoCS)"},{"_key":"18c4e158d222","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://tfhc.nt.gov.au/children-and-families"},"style":"arrow","text":"  NT – Department of Children and Families"},{"_key":"cbe92c9b3c95","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.dcssds.qld.gov.au/our-work/child-safety"},"style":"arrow","text":"QLD – Child Safety"},{"_key":"46401dfcee27","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.childprotection.sa.gov.au/"},"style":"arrow","text":"SA – Department for Child Protection (DCP)"},{"_key":"e1c6b0b2e8a0","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.decyp.tas.gov.au/safe-children/guide-to-tasmanias-child-safety-services/"},"style":"arrow","text":"TAS – Child Safety Service"},{"_key":"6b1174cdf429","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://services.dhhs.vic.gov.au/child-protection"},"style":"arrow","text":"VIC – Child Protection"},{"_key":"dab789853231","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-communities/child-protection"},"style":"arrow","text":"WA – Child protection and Family Support"}],"question":[{"_key":"41eee860b8bb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"815d1b9d61ab0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Child protection and safety services by State/Territory"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9f8489be6c54","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b4763f21afdd0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ef2cf250c11f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f6796fc13d330","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"text":[{"_key":"2d92e514e733","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bc5bfe4f620c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You may have questions about what happens when you call PANDA to tell us how you’re feeling."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"title":"Common questions"}],"relatedArticles":[{"_key":"a7a49dd14718","_ref":"3dd5d15a-dcef-45b9-8e91-c6dab35b5c2f","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"06ee0fa31f1f","_ref":"310776fc-166b-416c-8958-8fbbf1b695b2","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"181ac297074e","_ref":"bc33ffbe-22af-4ed5-b627-d64f7594825a","_type":"reference"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"It’s normal for new parents to have concerns about what might happen when they reach out for help. 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Having a few supplies gathered can also help if you’re wearing your bub in a carrier or they fall asleep in your arms."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"337ddfb6e142","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3390226f32630","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You might like to include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5d15732ed2bc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"595ef33af76a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Phone charger and earphones if you use them."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2d247eacbf2d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cfb21224944c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Water (glass or bottle)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7275a3c02846","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4bb3cc90011a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A hot drink, something warm and comforting."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9e6c30349bac","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"00f47195a8c80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Cooler weather: Hot water bottle or a cozy blanket."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0840c538e20c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8e8cb2c82c260","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Warmer weather: An icy cool damp cloth for your face and neck."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7e0d99077c01","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9b7c2d2d35c00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Neurodivergent callers: A weighted blanket or plushie, fidget, sensory and stim tools."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1326b733e63a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4a560403fcbd0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Easy snacks: For you, but also a handy distraction if your baby is eating solids, or you have toddlers and older children at home."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1e0a3ca73742","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"af53c5d99cc50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Baby supplies like wipes and tissues, nappy, a bottle and toys."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f5fd1d769b1e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8dd19f3f278f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Hand lotion or moisturiser: Give yourself a soothing mini massage during the call, or after."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b5bf4a6c716d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"250c94e0664d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Paper and pen in case you want to note any thoughts, ideas or resources during your call."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7da45943dd21","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"27199fc5501f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6100e07cf502","_type":"quote","attribution":"Julia, PANDA Peer Support Practitioner","quote":"Try calling PANDA when your bub is napping, or you're out for a walk."},{"_key":"ad6eac16083e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d49a5f3321ef0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"During the call"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"e5d196541c27","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"adab5a468e0d0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Taking the pressure off"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h5"},{"_key":"5d72b092906d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ebff00e54474","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It can be hard to know where to start, and what to talk about – but we don’t need to squeeze everything into one call. If you’re feeling unsure, a bit shy, or anxious please let us know – we’ll do our best to ensure you feel safe and supported to share whatever is on your mind."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"030d1bc8dcab","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ecf3c642f2a20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You can call the PANDA Helpline as often as you like. We're available 9am–7:30pm Monday to Friday, and 9am–4pm on Saturdays. We’ll check in throughout the call to see how you’re feeling, or if there’s anything that’s come up that you’d like to discuss, either now or next time."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1027767b2a07","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"feda7f8dca1b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Ask yourself, "},{"_key":"4da1017c4bf6","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"\"What might help right now?\" "},{"_key":"8b70f2f67532","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"or tonight, or over the next few weeks? We can help you break down big concerns into more manageable chunks. This might look like community-based support options, or practical and simple self-care you can do while we’re on the phone together."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9e4b99840899","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"900515a405f50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes it helps to focus on the wave that’s coming ashore in the moment, instead of feeling swamped by the whole ocean of life."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"77329cd9c06f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cba92dce6b650","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"If the call is interrupted and you need to go"},{"_key":"18e44b9a312b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":", we can always arrange a time for a follow-up call – you and your family are the priority, always. If your baby wakes up or family arrives home early, you can call us back at a time that suits. If you just need a moment to get ready to feed your baby, or start the next Bluey episode, our counsellors and peer practitioners are happy to stay on the line with you."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4d0d4b9c27ec","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b472e72b7afa0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Post-call care: Looking after yourself"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"8f10f141a80e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7b63dad65f970","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You might need to tend to your baby straight after we hang up, but as soon as you get a chance, go outside and take some deep breaths of fresh air. Feet firmly on the earth, getting grounded in your surrounds again."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e9d02581985c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"58308b9aca520","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Let the sun warm your skin, or a cool breeze caress your face."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"11ee19af6a68","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a595df0b5f0d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s always a good idea to spend time re-connecting to nature and the world around you after doing some self-reflection and exploration during a call."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"84c3e5e3a1e6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1da5679172640","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you can, change your environment. You might like to:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3aed6524ed24","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"24e9fd2ab6010","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Pop your baby in their pram and head to the park."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1f634a0a4dac","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0cc9d6b6dd410","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Visit family and friends."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"38e759a27d6a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"21f115e6e4310","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Go to the gym and sweat it out."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"da75c7a8d741","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f465f54e34830","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If it’s not practical for you to leave the house, you could:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4a86e3f3ca0b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8fb9e50638140","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Lie down to rest or nap."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cdd561dd94f1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2ab9a403f1e50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Give your indoor plants some love."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a123fd4f2533","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"70d806a0ddf00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do some balcony or backyard gardening."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7fdae3173609","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b7b4b8cfa6800","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Listen to music or a podcast that you can tune out to?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3738b891c58d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d092478a4e050","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Have a bath, shower, or splash cool water on your face."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"73a7b10c0115","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8cf0827a05af0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do a free virtual exercise class at home – try searching for ‘gentle’ or ‘relaxing’ stretches for pregnancy (antenatal) or new parents (postnatal)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2bb70825392e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d1be5539dead0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Journalling – you may want to note goals or reflections that have come up during the phone call. This can free up some much-needed mental space."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2023-12-07","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"headline":"Getting the most out of your call with PANDA: Practical telehealth tips ","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Mother holding baby while on the phone","asset":{"_ref":"image-d0cdeab839a4a8e7e8e497d39766e84f7797308a-5305x3537-jpg","_type":"reference"},"crop":{"_type":"sanity.imageCrop","bottom":0,"left":0.24428822495606395,"right":0.005272407732864637,"top":0},"hotspot":{"_type":"sanity.imageHotspot","height":1,"width":0.6766256590509659,"x":0.6388400702987698,"y":0.5}}},"modules":[{"_key":"eff1a2611f53","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"e4ad07efaa3a","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"58f9d9a0289f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ac181e2796020","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Relax, drink water and eat a snack to help calm your nervous system, as swallowing and digestion can trigger a physical relaxation response. Re-hydrating and eating can also help you to get anchored into your body again after chatting about thoughts and feelings during a call. If you’re a new parent, place your baby in a safe place like their pram, so you can take a moment to yourself to eat, drink and go to the toilet. It’s important to prioritise these needs."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"d592f8689d9a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"30fc4d03649d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Resting and digesting"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"3a66a6758af4","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"b070850e935e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b7b537ec2ea60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Include a focus on breathing. Try some deep, rhythmic breathing to the count of 4 (inhale to the count of 4, hold for 4, exhale to the count of 4)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bbb742aab80f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d072261767cd0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Or try exhaling as slowly as you can, and sing, sigh or hum as you do it. Doing this can have a calming effect on the vagus nerve (the nerve which runs from our brain to our gut) and help you to manage stress and anxiety."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"844e2ea19303","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d01a16dd798a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Simple relaxation and calming strategies"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"44a8d9d53946","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"fa5db27c7458","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"10046ed24b780","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If we’re sending you resources and referral options (also check the junk folder). If you look at the resources we’ve shared with you, and would like more information or additional options, you’re welcome to contact us by reply email."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"246d50251bf5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4a4c98c6e96c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Keep an eye on your email"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"34710d1aaaa4","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"67ea56b09cdd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e383f514ffbf0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Did we chat about things you can do to look after yourself? Have a warm shower, check out email resources, book a doctor’s appointment, or chat with your family, midwife or child health nurse? You may like to make a little list of to-dos or add a calendar reminder for yourself."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e8d30daa6d3a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"565a234b6fc30","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It might help to be aware of your moods and potential triggers between calls – things like daily tasks, or some relationships or situations you find challenging. Paying attention to changes can help you identify sources or patterns of stress: Shine a light on where you need extra support, and things you might like to chat about in your next call with PANDA."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"415c1b9163bf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bce95a4e32da0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Before your next call"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}]},{"_key":"0c02f697cd43","_type":"freeText","text":[{"_key":"ab7ff29a25ac","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"007af3d0d7540","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"One last thing."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h3"},{"_key":"a271df5ca72d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dfaaef97b944","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s very common to hang up then immediately think ‘Oh, I forgot to ask about that’ or ‘Really wish we’d discussed this’. Or maybe it’s something you want to chat about next time. You can write these things in your phone notes or make a voice memo, so it’s easy to remember next time we chat."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4f708d10d6a2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"56c1115f3d910","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If something feels urgent, you can contact us any time via phone or email."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e9d6e4a2101d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"672d1260e4170","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"All the suggestions above can be adapted for any telehealth appointment – like a call from your doctor, video counselling session, or online peer support group."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c45727ecaea0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7e1c0bd20eaa0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Even if you see your healthcare providers in person, we still encourage you to do something nice for yourself either side of the appointment."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"relatedArticles":[{"_key":"8773b7ad556c","_ref":"10b7738e-1d41-4751-b5eb-e9e83a40dda2","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"dd0ebc4d4e93","_ref":"3e9170da-2e0e-427f-a832-e5b31624df14","_type":"reference"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"Practical tips for you to get the most out of your calls with us","metaTitle":" Getting the most out of your call with PANDA: Practical telehealth tips","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-10b745a3c657ba945db6e41ed5c7b62446f552cc-1200x630-png","_type":"reference"}}},"showFeedbackForm":true,"sidebarPosts":[{"_key":"bc1dc29910f2","_ref":"09a8636c-b6c5-4b7d-ac91-a3c362fe67e1","_type":"reference"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"getting-the-most-out-of-your-call-with-panda"},"tags":[{"_key":"4c7a33219165","_ref":"2df7e53e-9ef7-4ed8-aabe-1623b28de6ec","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"a51db586eead","_ref":"49993bd9-e417-4743-b155-591d0a496a77","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"0245d64f8474","_ref":"98c6d929-2d8d-4cbb-9cfe-13d53cdcb7ad","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Getting the most out of your call with PANDA: Practical telehealth tips ","id":"-9e9fa3a2-11c8-5b90-a289-56363215e7d1","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"78167fe26b939f903bbe573f031f2a03","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":64},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"getting-the-most-out-of-your-call-with-panda"}}}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"what-happens-when-i-call-the-panda-helpline"},"tags":[{"_id":"49993bd9-e417-4743-b155-591d0a496a77","_type":"tag","_rev":"28Ey2N6aiyTS8vMpxWUlsL","_createdAt":"2022-01-20T23:34:28Z","_updatedAt":"2023-12-18T01:53:25Z","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"depression"},"title":"Depression","id":"-c649f30a-94f8-5df4-8315-a01c32ed8ed8","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityTag","contentDigest":"da738bf29b5216f99c94c491472d1d15","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":1362},"parent":null},{"_id":"98c6d929-2d8d-4cbb-9cfe-13d53cdcb7ad","_type":"tag","_rev":"V4QUz6N4dC6YqomOXqSQyD","_createdAt":"2022-01-20T23:34:31Z","_updatedAt":"2023-12-18T01:53:15Z","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"anxiety"},"title":"Anxiety","id":"-67d8995b-75fc-50b1-a8fc-7819ae937f7d","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityTag","contentDigest":"f55b83a5066218e366d6842ccd6e7729","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":1363},"parent":null},{"_id":"2df7e53e-9ef7-4ed8-aabe-1623b28de6ec","_type":"tag","_rev":"UofamAmpsKiKesBqe1nVuX","_createdAt":"2022-02-24T01:01:33Z","_updatedAt":"2022-02-24T01:01:33Z","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"finding-the-right-support"},"title":"Finding the right support","id":"-fbf2c0f0-14ac-5490-b2a4-eab606ac7024","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityTag","contentDigest":"cb585abbafc94d0f16b40a1a598e0411","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":1354},"parent":null},{"_id":"9b2f81d1-948b-4eef-995c-0e856620264d","_type":"tag","_rev":"aA1fTfkzTKX28O3lL9NYYP","_createdAt":"2022-02-24T01:04:28Z","_updatedAt":"2022-02-24T01:04:28Z","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"resources-to-support-my-practice"},"title":"Resources to support my practice","id":"-7476c9d7-e65c-5836-8789-db56e46bcc86","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityTag","contentDigest":"5db911a6f66a57928465c2576097957f","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":1358},"parent":null}],"title":"What happens when I call the PANDA Helpline? ","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":[{"_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":"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}],"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":{"_id":"image-f12faa68ea2bd2a18594e7c59bdb785fb44d43a2-500x417-png","_type":"sanity.imageAsset","_rev":"xNv5LZ3Faq77XvWwHWeUEi","_createdAt":"2022-02-22T23:12:11Z","_updatedAt":"2022-02-22T23:12:11Z","assetId":"f12faa68ea2bd2a18594e7c59bdb785fb44d43a2","extension":"png","metadata":{"_type":"sanity.imageMetadata","blurHash":"e49GzEyD00HrTvE0M{kWx],]0K-V^Q5Qxu#8W;TdwJRP009Z_M^+Rk","dimensions":{"_type":"sanity.imageDimensions","aspectRatio":1.1990407673860912,"height":417,"width":500},"hasAlpha":true,"isOpaque":false,"lqip":"data:image/png;base64,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","palette":{"_type":"sanity.imagePalette","darkMuted":{"_type":"sanity.imagePaletteSwatch","background":"#27364c","foreground":"#fff","population":0.22,"title":"#fff"},"darkVibrant":{"_type":"sanity.imagePaletteSwatch","background":"#903012","foreground":"#fff","population":0.02,"title":"#fff"},"dominant":{"_type":"sanity.imagePaletteSwatch","background":"#c6c3ba","foreground":"#000","population":0.63,"title":"#fff"},"lightMuted":{"_type":"sanity.imagePaletteSwatch","background":"#c6c3ba","foreground":"#000","population":0.63,"title":"#fff"},"lightVibrant":{"_type":"sanity.imagePaletteSwatch","background":"#eca58b","foreground":"#000","population":0.51,"title":"#fff"},"muted":{"_type":"sanity.imagePaletteSwatch","background":"#557095","foreground":"#fff","population":0.43,"title":"#fff"},"vibrant":{"_type":"sanity.imagePaletteSwatch","background":"#1cbc94","foreground":"#fff","population":0,"title":"#fff"}}},"mimeType":"image/png","originalFilename":"PANDAServicesandResources-shopify.png","path":"images/2eln2asx/production/f12faa68ea2bd2a18594e7c59bdb785fb44d43a2-500x417.png","sha1hash":"f12faa68ea2bd2a18594e7c59bdb785fb44d43a2","size":102285,"uploadId":"zgba50MAMc651S0csqW7vAupHCSuXqQu","url":"https://cdn.sanity.io/images/2eln2asx/production/f12faa68ea2bd2a18594e7c59bdb785fb44d43a2-500x417.png","id":"image-f12faa68ea2bd2a18594e7c59bdb785fb44d43a2-500x417-png","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityImageAsset","contentDigest":"556d1289dc5f4511a7dc7f280670ce6c","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":725},"parent":null}},"text":[{"_key":"d757fe214ce4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d9b3853b7454","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Tips on finding a doctor, sharing your concerns and what to expect from a consultation."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"47c962839d97","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"f6d9d0db4055","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"148b115c894f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"95ae5c273ff70","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re still not sure about sharing your thoughts or feelings with your doctor, it can help to talk with a loved one or friend first. You can also call the PANDA Helpline. Our counsellors are skilled at helping you to explore your feelings, and to practice aloud the things you want to tell your doctor."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"59c4cff19a3d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1a8177ac599b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Practice the conversation first"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"72490974baf0","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"effbc4dd9b95","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"877fbb2811ce0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s important to tell your doctor about any changes in your thoughts, feelings and behaviours since becoming an expecting or new parent. Remember, these things do not make you a bad parent, but are potential symptoms of a common, treatable health condition. Let the doctor know if you have felt this way and/or been diagnosed with depression, anxiety or another mental health condition before. It’s also important to tell the doctor if you have had previous thoughts of suicide, or if you have lost someone to suicide."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"92847b9f3fdf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e556c7ae5842","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What to tell your doctor"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"d70aa326f74c","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"afb1d1c51263","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5d702f25140b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor should be non-judgemental, respectful and supportive.. They should assess you by asking questions about your symptoms, your and your family’s mental health history, your physical health and lifestyle (e.g. exercise, sleep, use of alcohol or drugs), your living situation, major emotional or psychological experiences, and treatment preferences."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2bd7c207cd94","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"00465bc565fa0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"After assessment, your doctor should be able to provide a diagnosis (although sometimes more tests are needed before they can make a diagnosis) and a treatment plan. They should explain your different treatment options, and why they are referring you to any specialist services."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"334374aa9b9f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"73478b791f18","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What to expect"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"3311e258bd75","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"a5ba4ec70e4a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"91c17bbeb02a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You have the right to fully understand your diagnosis and recommended treatment. You could ask:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4bc3162dd3c5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1e674db35e500","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What are my options for treatment? Which do you think are best for me?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"29499fa2c097","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f88a2e215afc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What are possible side effects of any medications?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8c5c37f91fd5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ff7d9457d7b10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"How much better might I feel, and how soon?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"785afab243a2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"754e2b27ec420","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Who are you referring me to? What do they do? How much will it cost? If I have private health insurance, will it be covered? (also check your policy)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"52a13d009398","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9711d2285d470","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Are there other ways that I can care for myself?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1059035e92d4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f9cd51760cd20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Can you talk with my other health care providers about shared care? (e.g. obstetrician, midwife, Maternal and Child Health/Child and Family Health Nurse)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"77e4e12946dd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"01336c0ee6de0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your doctor can refer you to services like counsellors, psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers and occupational therapists. They might give you a mental health care plan, which gives you some Medicare rebates to help you access counselling. For a higher level of care, they might refer you to a Mother Baby Unit — a hospital unit where you stay with your baby — or to another hospital-based psychiatric service."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"5e39c53e4e16","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6e7d757729f3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Questions to ask"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"0fe6884d9fa5","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"a0f34745db53","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a2c2141ba0ce0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Not all doctors have the same experience, confidence or qualifications in supporting patients with mental health issues. If the first doctor you see doesn’t help you enough, please don’t give up. You have a right to get the support you need, to feel better and enjoy your parenting journey."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"11105b443a24","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d722bb40d5090","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Call the PANDA National Helpline any time: to find a doctor or other service, for supportive counselling, or to discuss other support options like playgroups or support groups. You can call for yourself or about someone else you are concerned about."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"31a628481730","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f1f0b7bb1fe4","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you don't get what you need"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"55f55b8dc810","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"27705a63f8eb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7dea9d64d2d30","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you need urgent help before your appointment, call emergency services on triple zero (000) or go to your local hospital emergency department. The symptoms and severity of mental illness can sometimes change quickly. Don’t hesitate to seek urgent help if needed."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5edf7645473e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"693b5731952c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You can call the PANDA National Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Helpline for support and ongoing counselling on 1300 726 306, Monday to Friday, 9am to 7.30pm AEST/ADST. You can call about yourself or someone else."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"00f3c1bfa15b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b740844eb25f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you need someone to talk with outside PANDA’s hours, call Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467, Suicide Line on 1300 651 251, or Lifeline on 131114."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"ee768dd29217","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e5933b44caca","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you feel worse"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"text":[{"_key":"c360ec98f5bf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"684a02e0b0a60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"People often forget things that they wanted to tell or ask their doctor during their appointment. It can be helpful to prepare by writing a list of your symptoms, concerns, and questions."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"title":"Prepare for the appointment"},{"_key":"5e8b1caa6593","_type":"fileCollection","files":[{"_key":"c5748ae691a4","_type":"download","background":{"title":"peach40","value":"#FFE4C9"},"cta":"Download","file":{"_type":"file","asset":{"_ref":"file-bec93bd9eb58ae8f35d03b5767093abeb1effd70-pdf","_type":"reference"}},"title":"Talking to your doctor"}],"title":"Factsheets"},{"_key":"f7e660518986","_type":"checklist","field":"content"},{"_key":"780165dc53a5","_type":"helpLine","field":"content"}],"relatedArticles":[{"_id":"4af3f3dd-21d7-45c9-b150-2cae7e53c7e9","_type":"article","_rev":"28Ey2N6aiyTS8vMpxWQDQF","_createdAt":"2022-02-14T08:25:19Z","_updatedAt":"2023-12-18T00:01:32Z","categories":[{"_key":"3635c35407c6","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"210b86426c5f","_ref":"a4331950-09cf-4e89-9803-5127aa533bc7","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"b81740fa0326","_ref":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"reference"}],"category":{"_ref":"-2be506a5-df12-5306-ab62-d66056112f83","_type":"reference"},"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. 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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Excludes public holidays."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bf2e572f71b0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e4ca57511d680","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1e6f793cb5f2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"af41779a3f760","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Regional NSW"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8e04a7e8440c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"acd0683b81180","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This medication advice helpline is provided by the Royal Hospital for Women. 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If you don’t have a regular GP, or you don’t feel comfortable speaking to your family doctor about your mental health, it’s also okay and very common to see a different doctor who specialises in mental health."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"453660a5a364","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cd335dbdd6ba0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You can find a doctor in your area using the Health Direct Service Finder directory"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6e6f89692a9d","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":" https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/australian-health-services"},"style":"box","text":"Search for a GP "},{"_key":"9c40aa99cf0e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4e3e884ceb150","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bb72fd14e44d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a7a4e37869530","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Health Direct also has listings for other allied health practitioners like psychologists, or you might like to find someone who specialises in perinatal mental health using the e-COPE Directory."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d650cf325277","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://directory.cope.org.au/#/"},"style":"box","text":"Visit the eCope directory"},{"_key":"500e3b097897","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5b90a3673d680","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d81f60724a14","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"378195c028540","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s best to book a longer appointment when you see your doctor to discuss your Mental Health Treatment Plan so that you’re not rushed when you go in. Your doctor will talk to you about your concerns, andget you to complete a questionnaire before you create your care plan together."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"98ca9b439ae3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"19b79338f64a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You might like to take a support person to your appointment. They can sit in the car or waiting room for emotional support or come into the appointment with you. This can be helpful if you have a little one or other children with you too."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b5ac84a03e5c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fbb950cb4f03","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s normal to feel nervous or overwhelmed when talking to health professionals about your mental health, You might feel worried you’ll forget to tell your doctor about everything that’s been happening. PANDA created Mental Health Checklists to help you start the conversation. It’s anonymous, takes 5 minutes to complete, and you can email a copy of your results to yourself."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1712712ea178","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f9c39a3b1e2f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Once you’ve created your Mental Health Treatment Plan with your GP, you’ll see the mental health practitioner of your choice. 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you are experiencing symptoms of perinatal anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder or psychosis, some of the thoughts and feelings you may be experiencing can be extremely frightening. 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. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d034dce19839","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c6f97e05bf42","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you are concerned about someone’s safety, call 000 immediately."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"e184663e30eb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"68c8c0a77a5a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What if someone confides in you about how they are feeling?"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"title":"Tips for talking about perinatal mental health"},{"_key":"5961c82b84c8","_type":"checklist","field":"content"},{"_key":"65c5084601e1","_type":"helpLine","field":"content"}],"relatedArticles":[{"_key":"321bccd29d0a","_ref":"09a8636c-b6c5-4b7d-ac91-a3c362fe67e1","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"d4af139a7df8","_ref":"bc33ffbe-22af-4ed5-b627-d64f7594825a","_type":"reference"}],"seo":{"_type":"seo","metaDescription":"For many new parents, talking about how they are feeling can be difficult, especially if some of your feelings are negative, scary or doubtful.","socialImage":{"_type":"image","asset":{"_ref":"image-502b9c9832b34b86ac3719a1ab45490aef9eb02d-1200x630-png","_type":"reference"}}},"sidebarPosts":[{"_key":"a1599f8f5a81","_ref":"3e9170da-2e0e-427f-a832-e5b31624df14","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"191d4aff7280","_ref":"6db1ae16-57eb-45a1-9f7f-e53fd09a8427","_type":"reference"}],"sidebarTitle":"Helpful Information","slug":{"_type":"slug","current":"talking-about-perinatal-mental-health"},"tags":[{"_key":"3bc6694cf754","_ref":"49993bd9-e417-4743-b155-591d0a496a77","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"cc6c475baea2","_ref":"98c6d929-2d8d-4cbb-9cfe-13d53cdcb7ad","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"bafe6aefb39f","_ref":"2df7e53e-9ef7-4ed8-aabe-1623b28de6ec","_type":"reference"}],"title":"Talking about perinatal mental health","id":"-112e2cce-b8f8-5ac4-b938-9a64d0a38a63","children":[],"internal":{"type":"SanityArticle","contentDigest":"84de5c772288a0a8c1232ba3d2505c0b","owner":"gatsby-source-sanity","counter":144},"parent":null,"__gatsby_resolved":{"slug":{"current":"talking-about-perinatal-mental-health"}}},{"_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. 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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 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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 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If this is the case, you may want to hold off on completing this step and "},{"_key":"fa199fff708d","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"focus on connecting the person with healthcare providers"},{"_key":"cb98c9becf0f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" – including peer support parent groups which can facilitate new friendships. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"03f9d41f77e4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c2209be199fe0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Step Four: Contact people for support with suicidal thoughts/urges"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"c79bab6ff82b","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"8321e4b86078","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9909d18f0a530","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"Which healthcare services can support me through a moment of crisis?"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7a3e4150a180","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ec748c50a54e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a185cd8f64a0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c9fc07f1453e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Include contact details for:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c88939f2a9fa","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"26a7b3643b320","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Healthcare providers currently involved in the person’s care."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1a378f017629","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d6548373ac270","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"PANDA Helpline and other perinatal/parenting support services."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cbbd60b08864","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3e385aa4eb610","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Crisis support lines (available 24 hours a day)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6e03194f02c1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5bc067580cb90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The nearest hospital emergency department."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"660640587c21","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1ee0611948430","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The local acute mental health triage number. "}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9ce1ee0890a6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7f2ca24adec50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Emergency services via 000 (ambulance/police)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"fecfd94fc306","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ece6144f20780","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Step Five: Healthcare providers to contact for help"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"23e1bd587cb4","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"99a46769a619","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7f9e916013940","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"How can I make my environment safe when I’m experiencing thoughts of suicide?"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fdcf9388960a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cd9507cad595","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a230fcd3ab08","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c2edc03d58e20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This step is about "},{"_key":"18fa45ce3292","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"planning to make the home environment as safe as possible"},{"_key":"8599a9d4ef8d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":". Ask the person what they might use to hurt themselves in a moment of crisis. Work with the person (and their support people if appropriate) to remove or restrict access to lethal means of suicide around the home. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d7edb5089542","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d1f12cd7fb1c0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Environmental safety can also extend beyond the home"},{"_key":"f64185b8972e","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":". The person may plan to avoid certain places (bridges, train stations) when in crisis. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"10c8cc838329","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3d09e43ce5610","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Step Six: Environmental safety"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"title":"A strong safety plan includes these six steps"},{"_key":"cfacb565b0f2","_type":"freeText","text":[{"_key":"96745ea206e1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"49c2f091d9b30","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Safety plans can change and evolve with time."},{"_key":"0b7ab4ee1ee3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"f6af998db4ee","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"eb6cb6410ceb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e0ebd2c4172f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0bae5cb62a61","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s a good idea to review them periodically to see: "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a9136a69ad88","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d9bb8542f9170","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If the person is using the plan and finding it helpful. "}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"270321a676aa","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2fbae206aa860","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Which aspects of the safety plan have been useful during a suicide crisis. "}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c00c5298fe7a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"395c2c42b32f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If more support options are needed as the person builds their personal community 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about suicide is brave. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"550b99b86da3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8ce40f1d1392","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It takes courage to admit to someone else that you’re feeling distressed or overwhelmed, and not coping as well as usual. Many expecting and new parents report feelings of isolation, shame and self-blame when they’re having thoughts of suicide. This can stop people from reaching out for support when they need it the most.\n\nIn Australia, suicide is a leading cause of maternal death during pregnancy and the first year after birth. Emerging research suggests fathers and non-birthing parents are also at increased risk of experiencing thoughts of suicide during the transition to parenthood.\n\nPANDA is committed to having conversations about suicide prevention and risk management in the perinatal period. It’s essential that expecting and new parents can speak openly and honestly about how they’re feeling, and access effective support to help manage distressing thoughts and feelings as soon as possible."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"184bdea01d1f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1360c90aeb4d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"\n"},{"_key":"ccce7d67b699","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Talking about suicide doesn’t increase the risk that someone will attempt to take their own life – but it can increase safety by reducing feelings of isolation and hopelessness."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1b6468acf3f3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d7deb96db034","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d3308b5d16d2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8f9912066314","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Providing space for someone to talk openly about feeling suicidal is an opportunity for:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1b9c284a3a1e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0d5b79447890","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Connection"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4e9b95258d76","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e90900beb200","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Reassurance"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cec8c2c41029","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a63ede044226","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Safe support"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d7260d0ccb90","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ce718d1084cc","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Hope for change"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"95db960099ba","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"40db9ceab9ce","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Thoughts of suicide are common during pregnancy and the first year of a baby’s life. On the PANDA Helpline, we provide over 40,000 counselling calls to expecting and new parents and their support people every year. We offer suicide prevention support in around 20% of those calls.\n\nThat’s 1 in 5 people needing support from PANDA to talk about suicide. Some people are experiencing thoughts of suicide themselves and reaching out for help. Other people want to know how they can support a loved one in distress.\n\nOur Helpline counsellors are experienced and comfortable in talking about suicide. We understand that people are often nervous about sharing frightening thoughts and feelings. 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You don’t need to deal with them alone though – specialist help is available."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"85b891402999","_type":"freeText","background":{"title":"beige100","value":"#EDE8E4"},"text":[{"_key":"fe6958f0e33e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"649ac6e077800","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Becoming a parent can feel overwhelming"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"b499149665bb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9e2fdf4146ad0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Pregnancy and early parenthood are a time of major life change. The world as you know it may suddenly feel unfamiliar, full of unexpected events and challenges to everything from your daily routine to self-identity.\n\nOften what we imagine parenthood to be like is very different from the actual reality of the perinatal period. It can feel difficult to adapt to and accept a pregnancy or birth that doesn’t go as planned, sleepless nights, an unsettled baby, and an emerging sense of self that is often defined by how well we think we’re coping as a parent.\n\nThe urge to hide any signs of distress from other people can be strong, but may also increase a sense of shame and psychological isolation."},{"_key":"434b71fc9f92","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":" "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9894939e9abb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2f21f3167032","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"It’s important to share how you’re feeling with other people."},{"_key":"185335e824f9","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"56c6af90472c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"edd1ce19fcdf","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You can choose anyone that you feel safe with, someone you trust to listen and support you. For some, that might be a family member or friend. Other people feel more comfortable talking to a health professional.\n\nEven though life may feel overwhelming, you’re in control of who you trust with your story. Deciding to talk about suicide is an act of courage and hope for change. Allowing other people to support you increases safety for you and your baby."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"b3573560b9c5","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"4b291bc6aeba","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"c7728821b40f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a83e3ff0bede0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Suicidal ideation"},{"_key":"81bd6c313fdf","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" means thinking about dying by suicide. There are two types of suicidal ideation – active and passive.\n\n"},{"_key":"8b731e90a6c1","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Active suicidal ideation "},{"_key":"ee092c655d1d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"means someone is thinking about dying by suicide, and may have a plan, the means, and/or intent to attempt suicide.\nIf you - or someone you’re supporting - is experiencing active thoughts of suicide or has made a suicide attempt, "},{"_key":"f206d0a0e097","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"immediate mental health support and medical treatment is crucial and may be lifesaving."},{"_key":"23ecfd30493c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"\nSafe Plan: Call one of the crisis services listed at the bottom of this page, or 000 if it’s an emergency.\n\n"},{"_key":"34606ed739ce","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Passive suicidal ideation"},{"_key":"03822d7a69e7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" means someone is thinking about dying or death by suicide, but they don’t have any intent or plans to die by suicide. These types of suicidal thoughts can be common during pregnancy and early parenthood.\n\nIt’s important to be aware that passive thoughts of suicide thoughts are serious and can quickly and without warning become ‘active’ thoughts with a plan and intent.\n\nExamples of passive thoughts of suicide:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4bd4253f26ec","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"406e078003ee","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I just want it all to end, but I’d never to do anything to hurt myself."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ecb676d232be","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8cc073cdfd56","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I wish I could go to sleep and not wake up."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b3cf9a17ffb6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"196283ab7ddd","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I’ve been having thoughts about being in an accident - like a car swerving onto the footpath, or a truck crashing into my car."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f9fa43ab5b68","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"de533d3786a3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you or someone you care about is experiencing thoughts like these, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. 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partner)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"687635ffaad7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f83af9cd32b7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"History of complex trauma."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"48e121f33c2b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e0edea0c856d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"People who are young.."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7070c003a487","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5e11ac05df1a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"People who are LGBTQIAP+."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a57ba438788a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"be61d62576cb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Situational stressors (like housing, finances, legal, immigration)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6abc29d509c7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"06f19184f6e2","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Lacking or limited social supports (partner, family, friends)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"db488c9286f4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4d85840749d30","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are additional factors during pregnancy and after your baby is born that may increase your risk of experiencing thoughts of suicide."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"433c6e844a37","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f80c1445275a0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Pre-conception and during pregnancy"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b18016104c64","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"68d33fd08e420","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Fertility issues, history of perinatal loss."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"dad39d3fde51","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"18ff692c6e9b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Miscarriage or termination of pregnancy."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1ceb6ea8ea79","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b05359210d8c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Unplanned and/or unwanted pregnancy."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"93bb0f85a502","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ab4627f4685d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Diagnosis of "},{"_key":"25695109fc04","_type":"span","marks":["0f7cfab587b6","strong"],"text":"hyperemesis gravidarum"},{"_key":"37881a38ee7d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"0f7cfab587b6","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.hyperemesisaustralia.org.au/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e2c0ad2b99f8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"95d93cf6f3820","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"High-risk pregnancy."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"111c83f91d3b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d9335376e25a0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Post-birth"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3a777e965f1f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"38038ef284960","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Diagnosis of postnatal depression, bipolar disorder and/or postnatal psychosis."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8b9c4579346d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"09a95eff1d5b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Traumatic birth experience."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f3be7c2505a6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"30cc1e66cb910","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Caring or a premature or unwell baby."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1f93aea1a5bc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"17c7f089c51b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Being a parent of multiple babies."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"99b59b354593","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"48c94a23be9d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Bonding and attachment issues."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1473e15c4db6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"731d41f7ef4c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feeling overwhelmed as a parent (sleep deprivation, mental health changes, feeding and sleep/settle difficulties)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2c3e37c88138","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a944512194be0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Grief and loss about hopes/expectations vs the reality of parenthood."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9cfc1a715d23","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1f55ccdec99b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Self-esteem issues: feeling inadequate, or a sense of failure (often about being a parent)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7faf37c147da","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8a32ee5d6fdc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feelings of hopelessness or defeat, being ‘trapped’, utterly alone, and ashamed are common amongst people experiencing thoughts of suicide - especially if high hopes of what pregnancy and parenthood might be like do not match the reality of life with a baby."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"9936eb31823d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3ddeb6a4b7be0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal suicide: Risk factors"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"345bb6e3df1e","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"480750f83f4e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7f70b928475a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It may seem simple, but just having someone to talk to – who listens to you with curiosity, compassion, without judgement – can decrease the risk of suicidality.\n\nDuring pregnancy and early parenthood, having support people for yourself and your baby is also protective. A strong support network can include family, social contacts and perinatal health professionals.\n\nFind people you feel safe to talk with and be around. Thoughts of suicide may be easier to manage when you’re connected to people who care for you and your baby. A support network can help you look after your own physical and mental health, and emotional and social wellbeing whilst you’re caring for your baby."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"378795951bf3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3ce3d00af5d6","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your support network may include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fc74dde25c6e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1d67741d3626","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Your partner, family and friends."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2635b15edc16","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"910447a4ba87","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Health professionals (like your midwife, GP, counsellor, child health nurse)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c3d02dc2aa90","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"56ba1aaf0b75","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Peer supports (new parents’ group, online support).\n"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"783ba8649e50","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3d6207c8879d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The transition from a busy work and social life to being at home by yourself with a new baby can feel isolating and overwhelming. Having loved ones around to share in caregiving responsibilities, give you a break, and have a chat to, can reduce feelings of isolation, self-doubt, and hopelessness.\n\nSometimes relationships shift when you’re having a baby, especially if people in your social network aren’t parents themselves. You may find it helpful to meet other new parents by joining a playgroup or online support group for expecting and new parents."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"ea075538d70d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a8bc61f003bf0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal suicide: Protective factors"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"3e71731e7f7b","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"fac3de4131ef","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0f27b13999a20","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Often, there are physical changes and behavioural signs that indicate an expecting or new parent isn’t coping as well as usual and could benefit from extra support.\n\nWarning signs include, but are not limited to:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f5cc51f204a3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"41502e1c4c6c","_type":"span","marks":["71da5245780a"],"text":"Symptoms of anxiety and depression"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"71da5245780a","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"bc33ffbe-22af-4ed5-b627-d64f7594825a","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"23bc8daa93e9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0a29ec239ecb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Reduced interest in personal hygiene and appearance."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"258851b685d7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bde305a67c12","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Noticeable changes to sleep and appetite/weight patterns."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d19dba64071b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c46bc148c3aa","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Social withdrawal (partner, family, friends)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"332eea94d106","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f3588fd2d0b7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Missing healthcare appointments (ante and postnatal care, mental health)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d908fc01eb7f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3ffe5bbdf1cb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Ceasing activities that were previously important (like your hobbies, playgroup)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"05cd59c1901f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c61cd345930b","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Reckless behaviours (such as driving, conflict with others, increased alcohol and/or drug use)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fae24301d6c1","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a7027fd81c9f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Saying goodbye to loved ones, starting to give away treasured possessions."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4024ab218569","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1123c21205fe0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You may notice other behavioural warning signs that someone isn’t coping as well as usual. Trust your senses if you think something is wrong and you feel concerned."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"926f58fc28db","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5e51ba5b09f1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Below are some ways you might like to approach a conversation with the person you’re supporting. We encourage you to consider speaking with a health professional or calling a helpline for information and guidance on ways to support your loved one as well."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"c9060b7c9494","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bcfbd832e9890","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal suicide: Warning signs (non-verbal)"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"d73e22d18c69","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"e3ae14ddec0a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8adb0eb31f420","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some expecting and new parents may talk openly that they’re thinking about suicide, but often the verbal warning signs are less direct.\n\nStatements indicating hopelessness, despair, inability to cope, feelings of inadequacy, failure, shame, or being a burden on others are often a sign that extra support is needed.\n\nIf you’ve been having thoughts like those listed below, or you hear a loved one saying these things, it may be a sign they’re feeling distressed and/or thinking about suicide:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"840295f0ba6b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b44358f3ecaf","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I’ve had enough. I can’t do this anymore."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"20cebefcb3df","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4c7c0ea926a90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I just want to escape."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2c2b7bd1c4eb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"52d15b479e580","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I feel like leaving. I wish I could disappear."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8620d8992062","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"69a891ad808a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"They wouldn’t even notice if I was gone."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3c1c1ce7f46b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c85caf5045580","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I feel so broken inside. I’m damaged and I always will be."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b30eb51673c9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2680f171b9860","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What’s the point? Things are never going to change. I give up."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6f7cf17581ad","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8551eb90a7620","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I’m such a failure at everything. I’m a terrible parent, my baby deserves better."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b772ae45cc0c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0910d223313f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I have no idea what I’m doing. I feel useless at parenting."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"697169409996","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c6de1878e4540","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I feel so lonely, even though I’m never alone because I’m always with my baby. Nobody knows and nobody really cares."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1d2aa3c7f8a4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a7b661de673a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Everyone would be better off without me."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fa31f90bcd47","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"68832fe888b00","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Please know that you’re not alone, because support is available."},{"_key":"2e14eb616e11","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" Although things may feel bleak or hopeless right now, with the right help those feelings and thoughts can and will shift. Mental health support can help you explore new ways to cope with distressing thoughts and feelings, and start feeling less isolated and defeated by life’s circumstances.\n\nRather than trying to cope by yourself, you can create positive change (and increase safety for yourself and your baby) by allowing other people to help care for you when life has rocked your foundations. This includes support people caring for someone experiencing distressing or frightening thoughts and feelings."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"4765823ddf0f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"961e67dee5fc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal suicide: Warning signs (verbal)"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"bb4aad6a7600","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"48399b71c4a8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0d5c1702cdda0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Having thoughts of suicide doesn’t make you a ‘bad’ or unfit parent, it simply means you’re human and having a hard time. The urge to seek help for thoughts of suicide makes you a caring, protective parent – it shows how much you care about your baby and family’s wellbeing. Seeking help is the first step towards feeling better, by looking after yourself and your baby.\n\nBecoming a parent is a major step in life, full of unknowns and new challenges. It can be difficult to cope with all the changes by yourself.\n\nIf you’re feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, and alone, telling someone else how you’re feeling can help you to "},{"_key":"24e57e234176","_type":"span","marks":["b40cc76a6a15"],"text":"cope with strong emotions"},{"_key":"38705126cedc","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" and other sources of stress. One of the quickest paths to recovery and managing your mental health is linking in with supports.\n\nMany parents who call the PANDA Helpline report feeling afraid to admit they were having thoughts of suicide to anyone, because they were concerned about what might happen if they did.\n\nYet talking to someone who cares - having space to share distressing thoughts and feelings, and exploring potential support options - often brings relief, comfort, and genuine hope that change is possible.\n\nWhen you feel ready, we encourage you to reach out for support. You might like to talk to:"}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"b40cc76a6a15","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"310776fc-166b-416c-8958-8fbbf1b695b2","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"09c88f0a6e58","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fe333edc12070","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A trusted loved one (your partner, a family member or friend)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"200f1de2e4dd","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"864dd21a35c90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"One of PANDA’s Helpline telephone counsellors."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ef8517161641","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"29d7f5ddb2ad0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A health care provider (GP, social worker, psychologist, psychiatrist)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"cdc570e8927a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"41f142dc9e73","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"A suicide support crisis line (see contacts at the bottom of this page)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"564986033acb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fd6603a8a0740","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Seeking support for yourself"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"1d7ea1b017c5","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"bf7e674de7b5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e482682367020","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you’re concerned a loved one is experiencing thoughts of suicide, there are some steps you can take to ensure they’re safe and supported."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"907ad7f5e51a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"298f618895970","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Talking about thoughts of suicide"},{"_key":"4353d0e54b1a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"\n\nRemember, asking about suicide can increase someone’s safety by reducing feelings of isolation and shame.\n\nHaving a direct conversation and asking these questions won’t increase your loved one’s risk of acting on their thoughts. Instead, it gives you an opportunity to show how much you care, are there for them and their baby, and are willing to help them find support.\n\nHaving an open and honest conversation can also bring immense relief to the person who is feeling overwhelmed and has been trying to manage everything by themselves.\n\nAs a support person, you can provide reassurance that it’s safe to talk to you, and you’ll be there for them no matter what they’re concerned about. But don’t forget, caring for someone at risk of suicide can have an impact on your own mental health, so be sure to watch out for your own wellbeing.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"856c1be9acb8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7faaec3fab450","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Some questions to ask your loved one include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ea29e5e9230c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0933753e937d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do you ever have thoughts or feelings that scare you?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e1b4c78fa88d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ab2788c51bcc","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do you ever have thoughts or feelings that make you worry about your own or your baby's safety?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c884db225dd7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8b826017356a0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"If your loved one answers ‘yes’ or ‘maybe’ to these questions, if you feel up to it, it can be helpful to keeping exploring how they’re feeling by gently asking direct questions about suicide:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b44b60f30ee7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3c31d77934de0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do you have any thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"779534e41e2d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3503859b29b10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Have you thought about ways you might hurt yourself/take your own life?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bb9055163b11","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c5042e22f264","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Whatever their answer is, again it’s crucial that you let your loved one know that you care, and you’re there to support them. When someone is having thoughts of suicide, it can be a relief to be asked these questions, especially if any answers are received in a supportive and nonjudgmental way."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e0aab08dde93","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fcbd739032c4","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Frequent reassurances may also encourage your loved one to keep sharing with you. You can also provide physical comfort like a hug, or hold their hand while you talk."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0a1d860f6e77","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1e9d967e5f9f0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Safety planning questions"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b7ca07d03d54","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"216ce4d557a00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What have you been doing to keep yourself and your baby safe?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9b8fa623c660","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d03bbc5893ce0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"How have you been coping with these thoughts and feelings? Has anything been helpful?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"68a8d066c099","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"067ef203b1a10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What helps to stop you carrying out your thoughts or plan?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9e4083954628","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d8cb386ffb4e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What would you do if you felt that you couldn't stop yourself from acting out your thoughts?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"17405b7dbf5c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3cd9c9b0771f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"At this point, you might like to tell your loved one they’re doing a great job of looking after themselves and their baby. Even if they tell you it doesn’t feel that way, reassurances that focus on their coping skills as a person and parent can be comforting and help them to focus on their existing strengths, rather than feelings like despair or shame."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"515682583aa5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"02b53c940ac90","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Recommended safety planning steps:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5c2c6820777a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a627fee2dcd3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Call one of the suicide support services listed at the bottom of this page to seek advice as a support person."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3d817d0527e2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a6e747ff0ef5","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You might like to suggest to your loved one that you call a suicide support service together (with the phone on speaker) so you can provide background emotional support whilst they speak with a crisis counsellor."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"41418cac09bc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"36ba11b8feaf","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Use "},{"_key":"d4e2a63dd627","_type":"span","marks":["fdaf789390f9"],"text":"PANDA’s Mental Health Safe Plan"},{"_key":"d6af2d0e8c1d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" to contact professional mental health support services via phone for guidance on what to do next."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"fdaf789390f9","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"0dd44d32-f29c-4ed4-b700-c1b55dfbb570","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7b256c1fcafe","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4485d07c0731","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Encourage your loved one to see their GP or a trusted health professional (like a psychologist or psychiatrist) as soon as possible for mental health support."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a0c671ffcb64","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9bd3bf932d37","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If your loved one tells you they have a plan, remove any harmful means from the house."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2b203d0caaa9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"753533d52eed","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Ensure you or another support person can stay with your loved one and their baby, so that they are not alone with their thoughts. It’s important to do this until they are able to access professional mental health care."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d4260aaf619f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"87b680c7ab300","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s also vital that you look after yourself while you’re supporting someone else. This includes staying connected to your own support network, and taking breaks to look after your own mental health and wellbeing. 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The world as you know it may suddenly feel unfamiliar, full of unexpected events and challenges to everything from your daily routine to self-identity.\n\nOften what we imagine parenthood to be like is very different from the actual reality of the perinatal period. 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There are two types of suicidal ideation – active and passive.\n\n"},{"_key":"8b731e90a6c1","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Active suicidal ideation "},{"_key":"ee092c655d1d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"means someone is thinking about dying by suicide, and may have a plan, the means, and/or intent to attempt suicide.\nIf you - or someone you’re supporting - is experiencing active thoughts of suicide or has made a suicide attempt, "},{"_key":"f206d0a0e097","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"immediate mental health support and medical treatment is crucial and may be lifesaving."},{"_key":"23ecfd30493c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"\nSafe Plan: Call one of the crisis services listed at the bottom of this page, or 000 if it’s an emergency.\n\n"},{"_key":"34606ed739ce","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Passive suicidal ideation"},{"_key":"03822d7a69e7","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" means someone is thinking about dying or death by suicide, but they don’t have any intent or plans to die by suicide. These types of suicidal thoughts can be common during pregnancy and early parenthood.\n\nIt’s important to be aware that passive thoughts of suicide thoughts are serious and can quickly and without warning become ‘active’ thoughts with a plan and intent.\n\nExamples of passive thoughts of suicide:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4bd4253f26ec","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"406e078003ee","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I just want it all to end, but I’d never to do anything to hurt myself."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ecb676d232be","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8cc073cdfd56","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I wish I could go to sleep and not wake up."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b3cf9a17ffb6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"196283ab7ddd","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I’ve been having thoughts about being in an accident - like a car swerving onto the footpath, or a truck crashing into my car."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f9fa43ab5b68","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"de533d3786a3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you or someone you care about is experiencing thoughts like these, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. We encourage you to speak with a safe support person, and talk to a health professional.\n\nYou might want to connect with your:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c90638ed3128","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b877c93203f1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Antenatal care team"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"531ce381ebd4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"90030473da16","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"GP"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7e7ceca3cbc0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8cd24d75ac6d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Counsellor"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"281f9da41d79","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c53d93060076","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Child Health Nurse"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"197e97474e61","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5629b8d2223c","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Safe Plan: If there’s a wait for an appointment (or even if there’s not), we strongly encourage you to contact one of the services listed at the bottom of this page for support and guidance. It can feel reassuring to know that there’s help available 24 hours, 7 days a week."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"9936eb31823d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3ddeb6a4b7be0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal suicide: Risk factors"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"cde7e7f60d1e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7ac6c92a36680","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Risk factors for thoughts of suicide during the perinatal period include, but are not limited to:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a4a6a5691314","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4341364ea7de","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Severe or persistent symptoms of mental health distress (e.g. "},{"_key":"b3b6f6550f64","_type":"span","marks":["3d75565be3bb"],"text":"depression and/or anxiety"},{"_key":"1ff981f49dee","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":")"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"3d75565be3bb","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_id":"bc33ffbe-22af-4ed5-b627-d64f7594825a","_type":"article","_rev":"2Yh8nlDmUZ6Jg9z9BNncZN","_createdAt":"2022-02-23T23:15:18Z","_updatedAt":"2024-03-28T04:23:54Z","categories":[{"_key":"4ca2a0403f2c","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"d569a086bb50","_ref":"a4331950-09cf-4e89-9803-5127aa533bc7","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"b54a83f60a62","_ref":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"reference"}],"content":[{"_key":"b2da517d910d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ab9606a40b210","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal anxiety and/or depression affects up to 1 in 5 new mums and up to 1 in 10 new dads. 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The severity depends on the intensity, frequency and type of symptoms, and how much they interfere with you day-to-day functioning. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4451594b5ca7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1698b140e648","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Everyone’s experience of perinatal anxiety and depression is unique"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"da77fd2db42a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b399333f29d1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We know that everyone experiences symptoms of perinatal anxiety and depression differently. The way it affects you can depend on a range of factors. Your own physical, emotional and mental make-up and stressful external situations may impact your risk of developing symptoms of perinatal anxiety and/or depression."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c4963cada187","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a03278220b2d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"There are also different degrees of mental health decline. Some people experience mild symptoms, while others experience moderate to severe symptoms. Some mums experiencing symptoms of perinatal anxiety and/or depression may also develop symptoms of postnatal psychosis."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6a0daa27bc0b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8af7e7e4f9a9","_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 after your baby's birth, it’s a good idea to talk to someone."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a61cbedf141e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"02b9baba1082","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you don’t feel comfortable speaking with family and friends just yet, you can call PANDA. We’ll listen, give you more information and can help you link in with postnatal mental health supports in your area."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-23","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"headline":"Perinatal anxiety and depression: Signs and symptoms","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Mum and dad holding baby looking uneasy","asset":{"_ref":"image-ada4b459accb2163e9cbbd7006c93b1241d71bd8-774x948-png","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"07ea0b737d1a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1a6f299b40d50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal anxiety and depression can be mild, moderate or severe. The symptoms can begin suddenly after birth or gradually in the weeks and months after."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"449dbd5d1fbc","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"ab521a6d5c1a","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"be3de6cfbeac","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"af575b92d558","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Persistent generalised worry, often focused on the health or wellbeing of your baby"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"750ca84818d0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"146fb281fef3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feeling nervous, on edge, stressed and panicky"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c9eb089ebf42","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ce9f6a27d3de","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Abrupt mood swings, easily 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We encourage you to consider speaking with a health professional or calling a helpline for information and guidance on ways to support your loved one as well."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"4765823ddf0f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"961e67dee5fc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Perinatal suicide: Warning signs (verbal)"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"e3ae14ddec0a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8adb0eb31f420","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Some expecting and new parents may talk openly that they’re thinking about suicide, but often the verbal warning signs are less direct.\n\nStatements indicating hopelessness, despair, inability to cope, feelings of inadequacy, failure, shame, or being a burden on others are often a sign that extra support is needed.\n\nIf you’ve been having thoughts like those listed below, or you hear a loved one saying these things, it may be a sign they’re feeling distressed and/or thinking about suicide:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"840295f0ba6b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b44358f3ecaf","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I’ve had enough. I can’t do this anymore."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"20cebefcb3df","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4c7c0ea926a90","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I just want to escape."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2c2b7bd1c4eb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"52d15b479e580","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I feel like leaving. I wish I could disappear."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"8620d8992062","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"69a891ad808a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"They wouldn’t even notice if I was gone."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3c1c1ce7f46b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c85caf5045580","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I feel so broken inside. I’m damaged and I always will be."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b30eb51673c9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"2680f171b9860","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What’s the point? Things are never going to change. I give up."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6f7cf17581ad","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8551eb90a7620","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I’m such a failure at everything. I’m a terrible parent, my baby deserves better."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b772ae45cc0c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0910d223313f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I have no idea what I’m doing. I feel useless at parenting."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"697169409996","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c6de1878e4540","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"I feel so lonely, even though I’m never alone because I’m always with my baby. Nobody knows and nobody really cares."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"1d2aa3c7f8a4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a7b661de673a0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Everyone would be better off without me."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"fa31f90bcd47","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"68832fe888b00","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Please know that you’re not alone, because support is available."},{"_key":"2e14eb616e11","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" Although things may feel bleak or hopeless right now, with the right help those feelings and thoughts can and will shift. Mental health support can help you explore new ways to cope with distressing thoughts and feelings, and start feeling less isolated and defeated by life’s circumstances.\n\nRather than trying to cope by yourself, you can create positive change (and increase safety for yourself and your baby) by allowing other people to help care for you when life has rocked your foundations. This includes support people caring for someone experiencing distressing or frightening thoughts and feelings."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"question":[{"_key":"564986033acb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fd6603a8a0740","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Seeking support for yourself"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"answer":[{"_key":"48399b71c4a8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0d5c1702cdda0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Having thoughts of suicide doesn’t make you a ‘bad’ or unfit parent, it simply means you’re human and having a hard time. The urge to seek help for thoughts of suicide makes you a caring, protective parent – it shows how much you care about your baby and family’s wellbeing. Seeking help is the first step towards feeling better, by looking after yourself and your baby.\n\nBecoming a parent is a major step in life, full of unknowns and new challenges. It can be difficult to cope with all the changes by yourself.\n\nIf you’re feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, and alone, telling someone else how you’re feeling can help you to "},{"_key":"24e57e234176","_type":"span","marks":["b40cc76a6a15"],"text":"cope with strong emotions"},{"_key":"38705126cedc","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" and other sources of stress. One of the quickest paths to recovery and managing your mental health is linking in with supports.\n\nMany parents who call the PANDA Helpline report feeling afraid to admit they were having thoughts of suicide to anyone, because they were concerned about what might happen if they did.\n\nYet talking to someone who cares - having space to share distressing thoughts and feelings, and exploring potential support options - often brings relief, comfort, and genuine hope that change is possible.\n\nWhen you feel ready, we encourage you to reach out for support. You might like to talk to:"}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"b40cc76a6a15","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_id":"310776fc-166b-416c-8958-8fbbf1b695b2","_type":"article","_rev":"Kn3wbDCpdlq0SfV55x32uO","_createdAt":"2022-02-14T07:37:29Z","_updatedAt":"2023-12-12T00:06:39Z","categories":[{"_key":"a32df932feee","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"ad4845925ac8","_ref":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"reference"}],"category":{"_ref":"-2be506a5-df12-5306-ab62-d66056112f83","_type":"reference"},"content":[{"_key":"b349450e9c16","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"33d3520171650","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Parenthood is a time of transformation and change. Sometimes the intensity of mixed emotions can leave you feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. Unexpected and unwanted emotions can be deeply upsetting and confusing as a new parent.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b1e50317f609","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c150155ba9690","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Having a baby can be a time of confronting and uncomfortable emotional extremes. Often there’s a disconnect between our expectations of parenthood and reality.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"78315ba4a855","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"26205d6531280","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You might feel moments of joy and grief. Flashes of resentment and rage may feel just as strong as moments of love and gratitude for your new baby, and your new life together."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a3d21b182d39","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6ffd7f6b41b80","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Parenthood teaches us how to feel, contain and move through conflicting emotions in unfamiliar yet creative ways.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"87a7b863081b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d95f87deefdf0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We often hear from new parents who say they feel guilty and ashamed for feeling sad or angry. Parents tell us they feel unable to tell anyone how they’re feeling."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"786dcf6aa090","_type":"quote","quote":"I’m supposed to feel happy and be enjoying this time of my life! If my partner or family knew how I really felt they’d be horrified."},{"_key":"7dffb8faddd2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6512c6730c380","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It may feel tempting to push strong unwanted feelings aside or deny them altogether. Yet these emotions don’t disappear - often they simmer under the surface and grow stronger.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"afb11c5f2fc9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a0ae53380d5c0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"As a new parent, it’s also common to feel like you don’t have time to sit with an emotion and reflect on why you’re feeling that way, because your baby needs your frequent attention and care.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4609649e0bf9","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6d858356d6fa0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When it comes to the new parent priority list, taking care of our own emotional wellbeing is often near the bottom of the list – when it should be near the top."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b4d0f8f8800a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"29d709fb89ee","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0e3edfbea1a3","_type":"quote","quote":"How can I feel a sense of loss when I wanted my baby so much? Is it okay to say I feel bored and lonely some days? What kind of parent feels irritated and angry with a baby?"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"headline":"Coping with strong emotions as a new parent ","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"Mum with thought bubble that says 'I thought I'd be great at this. I feel like a failure'","asset":{"_ref":"image-db1b51efe9f3a98acde0231aecd06a803b1f99a0-3001x3000-png","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"6fdcbaf8556c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"31ab64cc84050","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Feelings come and go – learning how to cope with unwanted or distressing emotions is a big part of the journey to parenthood."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"5dda9e1f0af2","_type":"freeText","background":{"title":"white","value":"#FFFFFF"},"text":[{"_key":"3a026c2d6d7c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"34766b7945130","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Don't push feelings away"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"8ac98f461ac6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"949968590a2e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When we sit with strong and uncomfortable emotions, they gradually begin to feel less intense and scary. Learning to sit with strong emotions instead of pushing them away or numbing them can be hard work, and it takes practice."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"083540360c63","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9f79752cd7ff0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sitting with our feelings can also help us to process and resolve intense emotions that might impact negatively on our sense of self and relationships to others."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3d271d7a3d69","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3cd75eef99100","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"\nLearning to sit with feelings"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"eb56d8cfddaf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f17288ae69260","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Using mindfulness techniques can help us cope with upsetting or strong emotions. Mindfulness is the practice of being in the present moment and sitting with feelings without judging them – or judging yourself for having those feelings.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f783fc4555de","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"12c357028fab0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s important to remember that you can adapt any element of this mindfulness exercise so that it feels right for you."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a0e0232fa47d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f88cc6b1d6d50","_type":"span","marks":["em"],"text":"Take it gently, and slowly – you’re in control of this process."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"678504981d6d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fcf4b7892d29","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bea053ff7c39","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9287e90bf1d00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Sometimes it can help to start this exercise with both hands placed over your heart, as an anchor point for self-soothing."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3a5dc27c4b91","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cf8790034be90","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Tip: "},{"_key":"1f207bdb5e72","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you read the exercise below and it feels too confronting or uncomfortable to practice it with a strong feeling, try the exercise first using a less intense emotion (eg when feeling tired, relaxed, wistful, bored, amused)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"9fe56a4f8d1c","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"d0172ad752de","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"4fd9ba6a54c5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d295f0afb3ec","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"1. Step away from your baby if you need to and take a few minutes to yourself. Make sure baby is safe."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b9d7b93171fa","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ab88e8ed7567","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"2. Take a few deep breaths and allow your feelings to come to the surface."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e8dacedd2627","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"220199a6aeba","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"3. See if you can tolerate the emotions that come up without taking any action (e.g. thinking of something else as a distraction, stopping the exercise)."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"f6143b1d5b2c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ee45f47c10ea","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"4. Allow yourself to be with the feeling."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d6b60825f9b0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"42bd5fdf22b4","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"4bb7c14bc0b6","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_ref":"9b76e69e-6f98-4dcc-afba-4d1c93912f37","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"},"style":"arrow","text":"Baby safe plan"}],"question":[{"_key":"3cefb6454c1f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1b62d4bd6169","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Wellbeing exercise 1"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"40c2608ef74a","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"ac2b01f700e0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1752c7e5ad190","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If sitting with the feeling feels too hard, take a moment to give yourself some self-compassion, as though you were comforting a loved one. You might like to say “It’s hard work sitting with feelings. You’re doing really well.” "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6a9859a825ed","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ff26b7a0b5a5","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you feel ready, return to the exercise."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9911d5466d06","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"780e4c4ee8fc0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Take some deep breaths, and use this moment to 'breathe' your way into the feeling"}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"43a4e3d89dab","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1efca6f909ef0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Name the emotion if it helps."}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"be5d0021ee05","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"73b5403391aa0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Notice where the feeling is in your body."}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"15be8377456e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cd4c3f8c3a2d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Pay attention to how those parts of your body feel (e.g tense, relaxed, aching, tingly, cool or warm)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"403bff655fb0","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"179dec30f8930","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You might like to physically hold and soothe the ‘feeling’ part of your body with your hands."}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7a271f1977e8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"f5b394e04cbe0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Pay attention to any thoughts you have about the upsetting emotion, e.g. “When will my baby ever stop crying?”"}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d472a396500e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"4141db5338c00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Remind yourself that you are okay and that this feeling will pass."}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"15e23849bb54","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0e92e5e49be10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Take a few deep breaths again."}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2634d16b8e1f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a15ab54c7d840","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Slowly bring yourself back into the room"}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0a59c143f51f","_type":"button","link":{"_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://self-compassion.org/"},"style":"arrow","text":"Learn more about self-compassion"}],"question":[{"_key":"26e096e1c4a6","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"69cf9205356a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Wellbeing exercise 2"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"d97b2b3856f8","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"f64a13720d66","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e520edb724300","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You might like to start keeping a mood journal. Write down answers to the following questions and you can track how you’re coping with strong feelings over time."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ee12114deb8c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"862e9a74a86d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"How did this exercise feel?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9605953cab65","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"af433cab23c60","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Which feelings came up?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e4addefb1c02","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"e936959e79710","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Where they were in your body?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d25e53dff127","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8a3c914cbb180","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"How did the emotions feel in your body?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2f66c91601ba","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"74e5480b4dac0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Did you experience feelings of compassion towards the feeling, or were there barriers to this? What were they?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"48f3f5c4c89e","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"46c442015c550","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Did you experience feelings of compassion towards yourself, or were there barriers to this? What were they?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"426ce0c93893","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"66acbb0a03b50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Write down anything else that felt helpful (or unhelpful) during the exercise.\n"}],"level":1,"listItem":"number","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"2f4adea02d3b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"dba96fd11dc9","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Wellbeing exercise 3"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}],"title":"Wellbeing exercise: Sitting with strong feelings"},{"_key":"b8ec9e65ce58","_type":"freeText","background":{"title":"beige100","value":"#EDE8E4"},"text":[{"_key":"4dc770966d51","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"aae5750f3e5a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Now it’s time to give yourself some self-compassion for doing the exercise. Thank yourself for taking the time to look after you. Have a cup of tea or a snack (an activated digestive tract can help ‘ground’ us in our bodies after dealing with strong emotions).\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7ffe5030f0c4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9f0c8763905a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Many Helpline callers tell us “I felt a bit silly” or “I didn’t do it right, I felt bored/annoyed”. Noticing any feelings - no matter what came up - means you’ve successfully completed the exercise. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"dfde9d657fec","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"bbc3974ecf47","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The aim of this is to be real with ourselves about how we’re feeling. Gentle and kind, no judgement, and no matter what those feelings are. Just paying attention to whatever comes up for you."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"b645aec7a201","_type":"textImage","background":{"title":"brightTeal100","value":"#49C5B1"},"contentOrder":"textFirst","image":{"_type":"imageWithCaption","asset":{"_ref":"image-67415d36755a659af8af10ece7ba228074eb05ec-3334x3334-png","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"5b5e7ad3518c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"b93878680892","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Accepting and regulating your own feelings is an excellent emotional wellbeing plan – and it’s also a wonderful parenting tool."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"2374aba50415","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ad33e75a58eb","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Be kind to yourself as you practice sitting with your emotions. Learning to cope with strong feeling links to the value of being a ‘good enough’ parent. 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Instead, it gives you an opportunity to show how much you care, are there for them and their baby, and are willing to help them find support.\n\nHaving an open and honest conversation can also bring immense relief to the person who is feeling overwhelmed and has been trying to manage everything by themselves.\n\nAs a support person, you can provide reassurance that it’s safe to talk to you, and you’ll be there for them no matter what they’re concerned about. But don’t forget, caring for someone at risk of suicide can have an impact on your own mental health, so be sure to watch out for your own wellbeing.\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"856c1be9acb8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7faaec3fab450","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Some questions to ask your loved one include:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"ea29e5e9230c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0933753e937d0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do you ever have thoughts or feelings that scare you?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e1b4c78fa88d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"ab2788c51bcc","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do you ever have thoughts or feelings that make you worry about your own or your baby's safety?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"c884db225dd7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8b826017356a0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"If your loved one answers ‘yes’ or ‘maybe’ to these questions, if you feel up to it, it can be helpful to keeping exploring how they’re feeling by gently asking direct questions about suicide:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b44b60f30ee7","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3c31d77934de0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Do you have any thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"779534e41e2d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3503859b29b10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Have you thought about ways you might hurt yourself/take your own life?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"bb9055163b11","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"c5042e22f264","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Whatever their answer is, again it’s crucial that you let your loved one know that you care, and you’re there to support them. When someone is having thoughts of suicide, it can be a relief to be asked these questions, especially if any answers are received in a supportive and nonjudgmental way."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"e0aab08dde93","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"fcbd739032c4","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Frequent reassurances may also encourage your loved one to keep sharing with you. You can also provide physical comfort like a hug, or hold their hand while you talk."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0a1d860f6e77","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1e9d967e5f9f0","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Safety planning questions"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b7ca07d03d54","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"216ce4d557a00","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What have you been doing to keep yourself and your baby safe?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9b8fa623c660","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d03bbc5893ce0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"How have you been coping with these thoughts and feelings? Has anything been helpful?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"68a8d066c099","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"067ef203b1a10","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What helps to stop you carrying out your thoughts or plan?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"9e4083954628","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d8cb386ffb4e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"What would you do if you felt that you couldn't stop yourself from acting out your thoughts?"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"17405b7dbf5c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"3cd9c9b0771f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"At this point, you might like to tell your loved one they’re doing a great job of looking after themselves and their baby. Even if they tell you it doesn’t feel that way, reassurances that focus on their coping skills as a person and parent can be comforting and help them to focus on their existing strengths, rather than feelings like despair or shame."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"515682583aa5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"02b53c940ac90","_type":"span","marks":["strong"],"text":"Recommended safety planning steps:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5c2c6820777a","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a627fee2dcd3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Call one of the suicide support services listed at the bottom of this page to seek advice as a support person."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3d817d0527e2","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a6e747ff0ef5","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"You might like to suggest to your loved one that you call a suicide support service together (with the phone on speaker) so you can provide background emotional support whilst they speak with a crisis counsellor."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"41418cac09bc","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"36ba11b8feaf","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Use "},{"_key":"d4e2a63dd627","_type":"span","marks":["fdaf789390f9"],"text":"PANDA’s Mental Health Safe Plan"},{"_key":"d6af2d0e8c1d","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":" to contact professional mental health support services via phone for guidance on what to do next."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"fdaf789390f9","_type":"link","blank":true,"document":{"_id":"0dd44d32-f29c-4ed4-b700-c1b55dfbb570","_type":"article","_rev":"wOo252sIOQQ29dCH6ugnlG","_createdAt":"2022-02-14T07:27:37Z","_updatedAt":"2024-01-08T04:49:06Z","categories":[{"_key":"7f3f1395014b","_ref":"a4331950-09cf-4e89-9803-5127aa533bc7","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"4415bc44038e","_ref":"b84de418-c2a8-4c44-b6ef-628f8a1ce593","_type":"reference"},{"_key":"12a2c3c6354b","_ref":"c4172819-1756-470d-8628-b5ffa921681e","_type":"reference"}],"content":[{"_key":"cf9ab8067adb","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"7a26732ea8500","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The PANDA National Helpline is available 9am – 7:30pm AEST, but we’re not a crisis service. We understand that it’s often the early hours of the morning when our callers are feeling overwhelmed, unable to cope, and need support services they can access for immediate help."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"745bc224fc5d","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"1f0ba379f1dd0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Below are two mental health safe plans that can be used any time of the day or night."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"7f17a2fea1a4","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"a136da2ffb120","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The first safe plan is for you if you’re having a hard time coping. There’s also a safe plan for people who are caring for a loved one experiencing mental health difficulties."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a02ba8b009a3","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"0b041dfc97970","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"We encourage you to share your safe plan with anyone that’s supporting you. That might be your partner, family, friends or a trusted health professional."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"0a992d1d1440","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"58a80b69273f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"datePublished":"2022-02-14","header":{"_type":"pageHeader","background":{"title":"peach80","value":"#FFD29D"},"headline":"Mental health safe plans","image":{"_type":"imageWithAlt","alt":"mum admiring her sleeping baby","asset":{"_ref":"image-44b1c552b4ddca5cc1fb896d9fe21b7e93524796-2500x2000-jpg","_type":"reference"}},"text":[{"_key":"94343f14dcae","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"cb95de9afb220","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"24/7 mental health supports are available. Learn about mental health safe plans you can use day or night."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},"modules":[{"_key":"5730cbb1c899","_type":"faqBlock","noNumbers":true,"questions":[{"_key":"ab48739001be","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"544027c04c4c","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"5dbf04bb559b0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This Mental Health Safe Plan was created for you to use whenever you need some extra support. This safe plan includes local 24/7 mental health crisis services for your area."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"989de62a85df","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"adecf193dd620","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you are feeling distressed and would like to talk to someone, you can call:"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"b4c8aae74958","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6da19c9f086b","_type":"span","marks":["e3972f3f0914"],"text":"PANDA’s National Perinatal Mental Health Helpline"},{"_key":"93076d00e614","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":": 1300 726 306 (9am – 7.30pm AEST/AEDT, Monday to Friday)."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[{"_key":"e3972f3f0914","_type":"link","document":{"_ref":"b769769d-ee6c-42d0-9dfe-8b41e1625715","_type":"reference"},"linkType":"internal"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"a56e2764f205","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"80942a44121f","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"The parent helpline in your state or territory (see below)"}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"166b161b6516","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6918e60b55a7","_type":"span","marks":["ce14b2b296c1"],"text":"SANE Helpline"},{"_key":"39ea609a6aa1","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":": 1800 187 263 (10am – 10pm in your time zone, Monday to Friday). 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It’s important to do this until they are able to access professional mental health care."}],"level":1,"listItem":"bullet","markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"d4260aaf619f","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"87b680c7ab300","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s also vital that you look after yourself while you’re supporting someone else. This includes staying connected to your own support network, and taking breaks to look after your own mental health and wellbeing. 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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. I feel like they're no longer there for me."},{"_key":"25571a389b23","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"af14044210e30","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"5ade8609d2ce","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"d8d6c0e5834f0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":""}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"40b7e023f4d8","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"932ad12870c5","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"It’s important to remember that perinatal anxiety and depression are mental health disorders. "}],"markDefs":[],"style":"h4"},{"_key":"82a6b592662b","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"95246cb2a906","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Try not to take any out of character behaviour personally. We also encourage you to look after your own physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. 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. Or encouraging your partner to go to bed early while you put the baby and other children to bed."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}],"question":[{"_key":"0fac05ab1f27","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"9d15d90ff3640","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Support their sleep"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]},{"_key":"6dbea1866ca4","_type":"faq","answer":[{"_key":"5cdd61b4e126","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"8818427ad28e0","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Help them make appointments, drive them to appointments and attend as their support person if possible. If you can't care for your baby/children during your partner's appointments, arrange for a loved one to have the children. 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1300 659 467 \nPhone and online counselling available.\n"}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"c00bdf650049","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/phone-and-online-counselling/"}],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"6da7511b92cf","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"421bf1935fed","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"If you (or someone you’re supporting) has been bereaved by suicide, in addition to the numbers above you can also contact these national suicide bereavement services:\n"}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"},{"_key":"3b5a89d20f58","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"52604cd9588f0","_type":"span","marks":["2b8c25a71762","strong"],"text":"Griefline"},{"_key":"7ee471d2493a","_type":"span","marks":["2b8c25a71762"],"text":" "},{"_key":"1674515045c4","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"- 1300 845 745 (6am – midnight, 7 days)\nPhone, online and peer support available.\n\n"},{"_key":"8c29a2cf55bb","_type":"span","marks":["strong","8e9fb3d24a69"],"text":"Standby "},{"_key":"7f58e830dbcd","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"– Support after suicide (24/7)\nPhone and face-to-face support available.\n\n"},{"_key":"06c7cdff3b5a","_type":"span","marks":["7191bf0f9947","strong"],"text":"Postvention Australia"},{"_key":"0a35ddb9bee3","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"\nOnline directory of suicide bereavement support groups in each state and territory."}],"markDefs":[{"_key":"7191bf0f9947","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://postventionaustralia.org/finding-support/local-support-groups/"},{"_key":"2b8c25a71762","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://griefline.org.au/"},{"_key":"8e9fb3d24a69","_type":"link","blank":true,"linkType":"external","url":"https://standbysupport.com.au/"}],"style":"normal"}]}]},{"_key":"d1daac8ea460","_type":"productCollection","include":null,"eyebrow":null,"title":"PANDA Learning Hub courses","posts":[{"_key":null,"_type":"product","title":"Perinatal suicide: One conversation can change a life","slug":{"current":"perinatal-suicide"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-7a14cddd133e5e392adb22142a9eb8266e71d153-3334x3334-png"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":null},"text":[{"_key":"881c0cbffc97","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"6ac8bfe31406","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"Suicide remains one of the leading causes of death in Australia during the perinatal period."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}},{"_key":null,"_type":"product","title":"Perinatal Mental Health: An overview","slug":{"current":"perinatal-mental-health-overview"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-f12faa68ea2bd2a18594e7c59bdb785fb44d43a2-500x417-png"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":null},"text":[{"_key":"3a84006c6405","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"35cc810ca61a","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"This course is an introduction to perinatal mental health, summarising key knowledge."}],"markDefs":[],"style":"normal"}]}}],"background":null},{"_key":"24b2480da980","_type":"helpLine","include":null}],"relatedArticles":[{"title":"Supporting the safety of a loved one struggling with their mental health","_type":"article","slug":{"current":"caring-for-loved-ones-at-risk-of-perinatal-mental-health-issues"},"header":{"image":{"asset":{"_id":"image-7851f333190ac8c7624d87bf28da3d7c17b4d00b-2500x2000-jpg"},"crop":null,"hotspot":null,"alt":"dad bottle feeding baby"},"text":[{"_key":"199aa478b8e5","_type":"block","children":[{"_key":"66cf25a308e50","_type":"span","marks":[],"text":"When you want to be a good support but you’re not sure how, PANDA is here to help. 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