Postnatal Depression

Diagnosis and Treatment for Perinatal Mental Health Issues

Are you struggling with persistent sadness, anxiety, or difficulty bonding with your baby since giving birth?

An experienced perinatal psychologist can help you overcome perinatal mental health issues, cope with the emotional challenges of new parenthood and thrive as a new parent.

Getting Started is Simple

1. Make an Appointment

Discuss your challenges with an experienced psychologist. Together, you will develop a personalised treatment to support you during this crucial time.

2. Commence Therapy

Evidence-based therapies like CBT Therapy with an experienced perinatal psychologist are effective for managing perinatal depression and other mental health issues.

3. Experience the Benefits

Experience the benefits of therapy, including improved emotional wellbeing, stronger parent-child bonding, and enhanced coping skills for the challenges of new parenthood.

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Perinatal Psychologists

Dr Marjolein Kammers, Registered Psychologist.

I am a Psychologist and a cognitive neuroscientist. I value up-to-date scientific and psychological insights and practical strategies to empower and support you in re-discovering your confidence, balance, autonomy and wellbeing. I have a special interest and established experience working with families at every stage of their journey. After birth, I provide parenting support around perinatal mental health issues, attachment questions and challenges throughout the stages of toddler, primary school children and teens.

More about Dr Marjolein Kammers >

Dr Katherine Horrigan, Clinical Psychologist

I am a warm and compassionate Clinical Psychologist with over 12 years of experience. I have substantial experience working with adults with depression, mood and anxiety disorders and those with a history of trauma. I also have considerable experience working with individuals who are adjusting to difficult life transitions, stress, or unexpected life changes. I recognise that each client is unique and strives to tailor each client’s treatment approach and needs.

More about Dr Katherine Horrigan >

Dr Miyuki Ono, Clinical Psychologist

I have experience working with adults in various settings, including private/public hospitals and the private sector, treating all age groups. I aim to help my clients learn and grow from their experiences. I have a particular interest in helping women experiencing perinatal mental health issues, including postnatal depression.

More about Dr Miyuki Ono >

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Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale

Take our confidential Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) to help you understand whether your feelings of sadness or anxiety are transient and likely to resolve independently or whether it would be advisable to seek professional support.

START POSTNATAL DEPRESSION SELF-ASSESSMENT

How Treatment Can Help You

A postnatal depression assessment ensures an accurate diagnosis, aiding the development of tailored treatment plans and psychoeducational strategies to help new mothers reach their full potential as parents.

A wide range of psychological treatments for postnatal depression are available, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT).

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How Postnatal Depression Can Affect You

Emotionally

You may experience persistent sadness, hopelessness, and guilt, which can be overwhelming and affect your daily life.
Psychologically

Postnatal depression can affect your ability to concentrate and make decisions, making it challenging to manage daily tasks and responsibilities. You may also experience anxiety, panic attacks, or heart palpitations, which can be distressing and debilitating.
Physically

Difficulty sleeping or changes in sleep patterns are common symptoms of postnatal depression, which can further exacerbate feelings of exhaustion and irritability. You may also experience changes in appetite, leading to weight loss or gain, which can impact your overall health and wellbeing.
Socially

Your relationships with your partner, family, and friends may suffer due to withdrawal and irritability, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Difficulty Bonding with Your Baby

Postnatal depression can make it challenging to form a strong bond with your baby, leading to feelings of inadequacy and guilt.
Long-term Effects on Children

Research suggests that persistent and severe postnatal depression can have long-term effects on children, including delayed cognitive and language development, behavioural problems, and increased risk of depression in later years.

FAQs About Post-natal Depression

What is Postnatal Depression?

Having a baby is one of the most joyful and life-changing experiences, but it can also be incredibly challenging. Many new moms find themselves struggling with postnatal depression, a condition that affects around 1 in 7 women after giving birth [1]. Unlike the “baby blues” that come and go in the first couple of weeks, postnatal depression can persist for months and make it really hard for mums to cope with the demands of caring for a newborn. You might feel sad, anxious, or numb much of the time. Simple tasks can feel overwhelming and enjoying time with your baby can be difficult.

What are the symptoms of Postnatal Depression?

Here are some common symptoms of postnatal depression:

Feeling down or like you don’t care about anything anymore
Losing interest in the things you used to enjoy, including your baby
Feeling drained of energy, as if you can barely make it through the day
Doubting yourself and your abilities as a mum and feeling hopeless about the future
Crying easily, being highly sensitive to what others say or do
Feeling upset or resentful towards your baby, partner, or other mums
Eating a lot more or less than usual, resulting in weight changes
Having a hard time thinking clearly or making decisions
Feeling isolated, alone, and disconnected from your friends and family
Experiencing scary thoughts about harming yourself, your baby, or others.

How long does Postnatal Depression last?

Postnatal depression can last for months or even years if left untreated. Without proper support, postnatal depression may become chronic and persist for an extended period. Factors like a history of mental health issues, lack of support, and significant life stressors can contribute to the condition lasting longer. With appropriate treatment, most women start feeling better within a few weeks as the postpartum period progresses.

When to seek help for Postnatal Depression?

Postnatal depression is a serious issue that requires professional help. If left untreated, it can get worse and make it hard for you to care for yourself and your baby. If you ever feel like your partner or baby would be better off without you, or if you have thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby, get help right away.

Postnatal depression doesn’t always go away on its own. While it’s considered “postnatal” if it starts anytime in the first year after birth, it can last for months or even years if it’s not treated early on. It may also come back if you have another baby and don’t get the proper treatment and support.

Finding the Right Psychologist to Help You with Postnatal Depression

Therapy for Postnatal Depression is available and offered by a number of qualified psychologists in private practice. Finding the right mental health professional can make a big difference in your recovery. Find a Perinatal Psychologist >

Postnatal Depression treatment is typically delivered through individual counselling sessions and can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Many psychologists who offer treatment for perinatal mental health issues also have experience working with a range of anxiety disorders and depression.

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

Send a request to a psychologist by completing the form below.

Perinatal Mental Health Resources

[1] COPE Centre of Perinatal Excellence

COPE Centre of Perinatal Excellence – https://www.cope.org.au/new-parents/postnatal-mental-health-conditions/postnatal-depression/

Medical News Today – https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/271217

Better Health – https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/postnatal-depression-pnd

NHS UK – https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/post-natal-depression/overview/

Pregnancy, Birth & Baby – https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/postnatal-depression

Postnatal Depression

Are you struggling with persistent sadness, anxiety, or difficulty bonding with your baby since giving birth?

Getting Started is Simple

1. Make an Appointment

2. Commence Therapy

3. Experience the Benefits

Perinatal Psychologists

Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale

How Treatment Can Help You

How Postnatal Depression Can Affect You

FAQs About Post-natal Depression

What is Postnatal Depression?

What are the symptoms of Postnatal Depression?

How long does Postnatal Depression last?

When to seek help for Postnatal Depression?

Finding the Right Psychologist to Help You with Postnatal Depression

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

Perinatal Mental Health Resources

How to Gently Cope with Loneliness

Perinatal Mental Health & Postnatal Depression

Get Outside To Boost Your Mood

The Pursuit of Happiness: 3 Things You Can Do Right Now to Boost Your Happiness

Coping Strategies for Depression

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