Survey reveals Australians think pregnancy and depression go together - media release.
One in seven new mothers are affected by postnatal depression and one in 10 pregnant women experience antenatal depression (known collectively as 'perinatal depression').[1]
Despite the high prevalence of these potentially serious illnesses, only 1 per cent of the Australian population identifies perinatal depression as a mental health problem.[2]
Chairman of beyondblue: the national depression initiative The Hon. Jeff Kennett said: "Pregnancy and birth should be an enjoyable time for new parents - unfortunately this isn't the reality for everyone. In its extreme form, depression can lead the mother to an overwhelming sense of despair and even thoughts of harming herself. We want people to know that depression is common and can be treated effectively.
"We've done the research and a plan is now being implemented. beyondblue is working with all governments to get a national depression-screening and care program for women rolled out across the country. We want to make sure women get the information and help they need - wherever they live and whatever their circumstances."
Patron of the beyondblue Perinatal Mental Health Program, TV presenter Jessica Rowe, who has experienced postnatal depression, said: "As I found out myself, postnatal depression can affect anyone - it was totally unexpected. The faster it's picked up, the faster you can get help and recover. It's fantastic to think that all mums will be screened for depression."
beyondblue Deputy CEO and psychologist Dr Nicole Highet added: "It's vital that we give a woman's mental health the same priority as her physical health. Pregnant women are checked for physical conditions such as iron levels, diabetes and blood pressure, yet their emotional health is often overlooked. Early detection through screening will also reduce the serious consequences depression may have on the baby's development and family relationships."
[1] Based on ABS census figures for projected births 2008-2013; 2 The beyondblue National Postnatal Depression Program. Prevention and Early Intervention 2001-2005. Final Report. Volume 1: National Screening Program
[2] Highet, N., beyondblue Depression Monitor phone survey of 3,200 Australians 2007/2008.
Personal stories about perinatal depression
What is beyondblue doing to help women with perinatal depression?
beyondblue is working with the Federal, state and territory governments to improve the detection, treatment and care of pregnant women and new mothers with perinatal depression in Australia.
In November 2008, the Commonwealth and State and Territory Governments agreed to support the development of the National Perinatal Depression Initiative (NPDI) based on the beyondblue National Action Plan. The Federal Government contributed $55 million with an additional $30 million contributed by State and Territory Governments for the development of a national approach to perinatal depression and anxiety and the implementation of the NPDI, with beyondblue receiving $5 million to support the Initiative.
The aim of the NPDI (2008-2013) is to improve the prevention and early detection of perinatal depression and anxiety with routine and universal screening of all expectant and new mothers. It also aims to provide better care and support for those who do experience depression and anxiety.
beyondblue's role includes:
- providing a centre of excellence and evidence about perinatal depression and funding research to improve knowledge of perinatal depression
- providing advice and informing governments about best practice activities in perinatal depression, including advice in relation to Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities
- developing perinatal depression screening guidelines and training materials
- community awareness activities (including advertising campaigns) that encourage women to seek help early for perinatal depression
- research with focus groups and online, involving people who have experienced perinatal depression and anxiety, carers, partners and health professionals to inform education and awareness-raising activities.
In the media
SBS TV Insight program - Coping with baby
On 22 September 2009, beyondblue Deputy CEO Dr. Nicole Highet represented beyondblue on the SBS TV program Insight, which provided a forum for discussion of issues relevant to perinatal depression. Participants included families with experience of perinatal depression, carers and professional experts, including Professor Marie-Paule Austin, Chair of the beyondblue NHMRC Clinical Practice Guidelines. After the program, over 400 people logged on to the website to chat, and more than 300 people posted comments. It was the biggest response Insight had following a program. Watch streaming video of the program and read viewer feedback.
Read feature articles on perinatal depression.
