Every pregnant woman could soon be screened for mental health issues
Every pregnant woman in Australia could soon be screened for mental health problems under proposed new national guidelines.
The guidelines recommend every woman be screened for mental health issues during pregnancy, and after their baby is born as part of routine maternity care.
Louise Redman, a champion archer, didn't get help for two years after enduring one of the darkest times of her life following the birth of her son.
"I went from a very fast kind of work lifestyle to suddenly being at home just with a baby," Mr Redman told 7 News.
"You do love them unconditionally but you don't really get to experience that true happiness. You've always got this horrible, deep sadness behind you," she added.
A few days after the birth of her son, she fell into a deep depression.
Post and antenatal depression affects around one in five new mothers and one in 10 new fathers.
"This is an illness that doesn't discriminate. It absolutely affects every type of family," Parental Anxiety and Depression Australia CEO Terri Smith said.
They're at a high risk of self-harm or suicide, but there are warning signs.
"Withdrawal from family, feeling constantly sad, it might be lethargy or crying all the time," Ms Smith added.
Like Ms Redman, many parents can't understand why they feel the way they do and are too embarrassed to ask for help.
"My son was almost two before I started to actually see light at the end of the tunnel," Louise added.
If those symptoms last for two weeks or more, experts say you need to reach out.
Under new national perinatal guidelines, Ms Redman's illness may have been picked up much sooner.
If you are concerned about the mental health of yourself or a loved one, seek support and information by calling Lifeline 13 11 14, Mensline 1300 789 978, or Kids Helpline 1800 551 800
