Pregnancy and parenthood bring significant change. For many, it’s an exciting time – but also a challenging one. Parents often experience a wide range of emotions and it’s common to have some difficulty adjusting. However, some mums and dads experience more severe anxiety or depression and these symptoms can affect daily life and make it harder to care for a new baby.
Up to 1 in 10 women and 1 in 20 men experience depression during pregnancy. Anxiety is just as common, and many people experience both at the same time. After the baby is born, some parents develop postnatal depression and this develops mostly between 1 month and a year following childbirth. In Australia, postnatal depression affects 1 in 7 women and 1 in 10 men, and rates of anxiety are even higher.
Many parents struggle to know what’s normal when it comes to mood, coping, and their baby’s wellbeing. Babies don’t come with a guidebook and for most parents, the adjustment is huge – especially when they feel exhausted or overwhelmed. Some are also recovering from birth, dealing with sleep deprivation, or juggling the needs of older children. It’s common to feel uncertain, stressed, or anxious during this time. You are not alone, and support is available.
Knowing the signs early can help you seek help sooner and begin the path to recovery.
Symptoms of Perinatal Anxiety and Depression
Every parent’s experience is different. Symptoms can vary in intensity, and may include one or more of the following:
- Feeling very low or unusually moody
- Emotional exhaustion or deep sadness
- Hopelessness or fear about the future
- Feeling like a failure or an unfit parent
- Persistent anxiety, panic, or stress
- Intense guilt, shame, or worthlessness
- Constant worry about your baby or pregnancy
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much
- Fear of being alone or leaving the house
- Changes in appetite or eating habits
- Feeling drained, flat, or unmotivated
- Worrying you can’t care for your baby properly
- Fear of being alone with your baby
- Difficulty bonding or feeling connected to your baby
- Feeling numb or losing interest in things you once enjoyed
- Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, running away, or feeling your baby would be better off without you
If these feelings have been with you for a while or are getting harder to manage, it’s important to seek professional support.
Treatment for Perinatal Depression and Anxiety in Sydney
Perinatal anxiety and depression are treatable. With the right support, recovery is possible – and early help leads to better outcomes. Treatment improves wellbeing for the parent, their baby, their partner, and the whole family system.
At MyLife Psychologists, we support new and expecting parents to feel confident, connected, and cared for. We understand how hard this period can be and we’re passionate about working with families during this life-changing time. We collaborate with your GP and offer a holistic, family-centred approach to care.
Partners and babies are welcome in sessions. We’re here to support your whole parenting journey.
To find out more or to make an appointment, contact us.
