A new mother, Marcelle Cooper, initially concealed her struggles with postnatal anxiety and depression from her general practitioner (GP). After a routine six-month check-up for her daughter, Skye, Cooper realized the severity of her condition and urgently contacted her GP for help. This call marked a turning point in her journey.
Initial Experience and Symptoms
For the first three months after Skye's birth, Cooper reported feeling well. However, around the 12-week mark, she experienced uncontrollable crying, insomnia, lack of appetite, and debilitating anxiety. She described feelings of panic when left alone with her baby and an overwhelming sense of overthinking, making simple decisions difficult. Cooper noted a feeling of shame that prevented her from initially disclosing her difficulties.
Professional Support and Outcomes
Upon seeking help, Cooper's GP recognized the seriousness of her situation and discussed treatment options, including a mental health assessment plan and potential medication. The GP also referred her to the Gidget Foundation, which provided 10 free sessions with a perinatal depression and anxiety specialist clinician. Cooper reported feeling a sense of relief and validation through these sessions, realizing she was not alone.
Broader Context of Perinatal Mental Health
Recent, unreleased data from the Gidget Foundation indicates that over 25% of Australian parents are unaware of available mental health support during the perinatal period. Furthermore, one-third of parents believe their symptoms are not severe enough to seek professional help. Perinatal depression and anxiety affect approximately one in five mothers and one in 10 fathers, impacting nearly 100,000 parents annually.
Dr. Ka-Kiu Cheung, Chair of RACGP Specific Interests Antenatal and Postnatal Care, highlighted the vital role of GPs in identifying, supporting, and treating perinatal mental health conditions. She stated that GPs can routinely inquire about the mental well-being of both parents throughout pregnancy and the postnatal period, emphasizing that feelings of anxiety or mood changes are common adjustments to parenthood. GPs provide continuity of care, understanding patients' protective and risk factors, and can monitor family bonding while offering social and health supports. They are also equipped to screen for red flags, provide treatment, and make referrals.
Advocacy and Call for Earlier Intervention
Now an ambassador for the Gidget Foundation, Marcelle Cooper advocates for early intervention and support. She emphasizes the importance of GPs taking patients' disclosures seriously. Cooper expressed that if support had been a standard procedure rather than optional, she might have sought help sooner and been better equipped to cope.