We get the challenges faced in conception, pregnancy and early parenthood. We want expectant and new parents to know, that they are not alone. We’re here, a community that cares.
The transition into parenthood can be tough
1 in 5 new mums and 1 in 10 new dads experience perinatal depression and anxiety, which is around 100,000 Australian parents each year.
Looking For Support?
If you are looking for support for yourself or a loved one, but not sure which organisation or service is right for you, you can complete a short questionnaire that help guide you on your journey.
Messages of support
Her Excellency The Hon. Ms Sam Mostyn AC
The Hon. Ged Kearney MP
Senator Fatima Payman
The Hon. Ingrid Stitt MP
The Hon Rachel Stephen-Smith MLA
Ivan Frkovic
The Hon. Chris Picton MP
Senator Marielle Smith
The Hon. Dr Andrew Leigh MP
Senator Steph Hodgins-May
Daily themes
If you’re a parent living with PNDA, take a moment to consider one theme each day this week, and see if there is someone you can talk to about them.
Wrap-around Care
Fathers and Peer Support
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Help spread the word
Post to your community and start the conversation.
@pmhweek #pmhweek2024
Get involved by sharing one of our downloadable assets.
A conversation with The Marcé Society on trauma informed care
It’s estimated that up to 60% of people who give birth in Australia experience some form of trauma. While it's hard to collect exact data on this, one thing is clear: consent, autonomy, and respect are essential during childbirth. When these basic elements are ignored or not properly respected, it can lead to emotional harm and lasting trauma
Pink Elephant is shining a light on pregnancy loss
Chances are, you or someone you know has experienced pregnancy loss. In Australia, 1 in 4 pregnancies ends in loss, yet it remains a topic often surrounded by silence. This leaves many people to grieve alone, without the support or care they need from loved ones.
AFRC on the importance of connection and peer support for fathers
Becoming a father often means that men’s social circles shrink as family and work take priority. New research from Australia reveals that 1 in 5 men aren't spending time with their friends, and these men are more likely to experience symptoms of depression. Maintaining friendships and social connections is crucial during this life stage, so it’s important to make time for the relationships that support your well-being.
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Proudly supported by
Togetherness, always
Rheanna Lotter is a proud Yuin woman and founder of Ngandabaa (Yun-Da-Baa; named after her grandfather Keith Thorne). Growing up in Willow Vale in the NSW Southern Highlands, Rheanna now lives and works in Western Sydney.
She has supported many companies and clients across Australia to showcase modern and contemporary Aboriginal Art, sharing culture in unique ways and creating artworks for all Australians to enjoy. Rheanna has worked with various organisations with bespoke artworks including Gidget Foundation Australia, the AFL and Boeing and recently designed the 2021 Australian Paralympic team uniforms.
Social media toolkit
Use our downloadable toolkit of social media messages and graphics to advocate for Perinatal Mental Health Week 2022.
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How to ask for support
If you know a new or expectant parent there are many ways to offer support. It can be hard to know where to start. One idea is to simply ask “How they are going?” and then listen really well. The earlier the intervention the better the outcome for all.
It can be tough to watch your daughter or son adjust to parenthood if you see them being unsettled. You could reflect on your own experience as a way to open up discussion with them or tell them about what they were like as a baby.
Always encourage openness and honesty and offer them reassurance at the same time. Asking what they need might also be helpful and just being there in any way you can.
Getting your friend out for a walk or coffee and talking at the same time might be useful. Check in often, offer times to connect and give them space to respond.
If you can ask them “How is it going being a parent?” or share a funny story of your own might encourage them to open up. Validate their feelings and listen well.
A weekly catch up where there are limited interruptions might be a good time to really ask how your partner is going, You could each do this as regular check in.
Timing is important and making sure you can offer support, ideas, or just a good listening ear. Sometimes you just need someone to be there and ask the question. Phones away for this time to connect!
If you notice changes in yourself then take some quiet time, reflect on how you are feeling and be patient with yourself as you settle into this new parenting space.
Recognise and label the emotions. If what you normally do is not helping you feel better, then reach out to a trusted friend or family member to get more support. Stay connected with others and make a plan.