PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) provides mental health and wellbeing support for individuals and families during pregnancy and the first year after a baby’s arrival. They recognise that the journey of planning, starting, and raising a family brings unique rewards and challenges, and aim to offer comprehensive assistance throughout these stages.

The organisation offers various resources, including an online mental health checklist to help individuals assess if they or a loved one might need help, and the PANDA Chatbot named Dot, designed to support exploration of mental health and wellbeing. PANDA’s commitment extends to all family members, including expectant and new fathers, acknowledging that their mental health can also be impacted.

For immediate support, PANDA encourages calling emergency services (000) if there’s immediate danger or Lifeline (13 11 14) for suicidal thoughts, as PANDA is not a crisis service. They also suggest speaking with trusted friends, family, or a doctor, who can provide non-judgmental support, assessment, and referrals to specialists like counsellors, psychologists, or psychiatrists.

Up to 1 in 10 dads experience postnatal anxiety and/or depression. Mental health concerns can affect your enjoyment of being a dad, your bond with your baby and your ability to function in daily life.

Reaching out for help or seeking treatment or advice from a health professional can help you adjust to the changes of parenthood and really enjoy life with your pregnancy or new baby.

On this page you’ll find information, articles and stories to help you look after yourself.