Antenatal and postnatal depression are serious, lasting mental health conditions. Early professional help and strong emotional and practical support from a partner can significantly improve recovery.
Rasing Children Network Antenatal and Postnatal Depression in Your Partner: How to Help page provides information on:
Antenatal depression and postnatal depression: watching for the signs
These signs might include changes in your partner’s emotions and thinking, behaviour and social life, and general physical wellbeing. And if your partner seems to be in a low mood or has lost interest in things they’d normally enjoy, you should take this very seriously.
Talking with your partner often and asking how they’re feeling will help you both be aware of any changes.
If the emotional changes in your partner go on for longer than 2 weeks and get in the way of daily life, you need to help your partner get professional support.
Getting professional support for antenatal depression and postnatal depression
There are many people and services who can help your partner and family with antenatal and postnatal depression:
- the national Perinatal Anxiety & Depression (PANDA) Helpline – call 1300 726 306
- your GP
- your child and family health nurse
- your obstetrician or midwife
- ForWhen – call 1300 242 322
- Australian Psychological Society – Find a psychologist
- your local community health centre
- QLife for LGBTIQ+ support – call 1800 184 527.
If you believe that someone’s life is in immediate danger, call 000 or go to your local hospital’s emergency department.
Emotional support for your partner with antenatal depression or postnatal depression
Here are ways you can give your partner emotional support during their pregnancy or after birth:
- Listen to your partner.
- Talk with your partner about how they’re feeling.
- Reassure your partner that things will get better. You can also reassure your partner that setbacks are part of the recovery process and that you’ll be there to support them the whole way.
- Acknowledge that your partner might be tired, and express your gratitude. For example, you might say, ‘Thank you. I know it’s hard and you’re really tired, and I appreciate everything you’re doing’.
Practical support for your partner with antenatal depression or postnatal depression
All parents and parents-to-be need practical help and support, especially those who are experiencing antenatal or postnatal depression.
You can do a lot to help your partner in practical ways during this time by:
- Share the care of your baby and take on more housework
- Keep your partner company or arrange for someone else to be around if you can’t be there
- Take on the task of managing visitors. It’s OK to postpone visits from friends and family so that your partner can rest.
- Help your partner with their appointments
- learn about antenatal and postnatal depression, the better you can support your partner
- Celebrate when your partner makes progress in their recovery.
Looking after yourself when your partner has antenatal depression or postnatal depression
You might be focused on your partner’s wellbeing, but it’s also important to take time for yourself as well. If you look after yourself, you’ll be in better shape to support your partner and give your baby what they need to grow and thrive.
Full article on the Raising Children Network can be read by pressing the green Full Article button below!
To learn more about antenatal depression and postnatal depression including what they are, symptoms, getting help, treatment and practical strategies head to the Rasing Children’s Network’s Antenatal depression and postnatal depression: pregnant women and birthing mothers page
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