A new NT program will help mothers and their families deal with depression during pregnancy and in the first year following childbirth.
Termed perinatal depression, this form of depression is experienced by one in ten women during pregnancy. As many as one in five women experience it in the first year after childbirth. The NT Perinatal Mental Health Project will address this.
"It is really important that we raise awareness of perinatal depression", said Department of Health and Families (DHF) Mental Health Director, Bronwyn Hendry.
"If it is not identified and treated, it can have serious effects on the whole family. Not only does it affect the mother, but it can also impact on the infant's health and development, other children and family relationships.
"Studies show that up to 50 per cent of partners of women with post natal depression are also at risk of developing depression.
Ms Hendry said the first step is introducing universal screening for depression when women are accessing routine antenatal and postnatal care.
"Early detection of women at risk or having symptoms of depression will enable us to provide better care to them, and also help their partners and other family members to support them through this time.
The new program will also focus on providing training and support for GPs, Midwives, child and family health Nurses and other health professionals who care for women and their babies. It will also enable improved access to specialist mental health services.
"Funding over five years will help us to identify the specific needs of NT women and their families. Raising community awareness of perinatal depression, identifying perinatal depression early and providing help where it's needed will improve the wellbeing of pregnant and new mums and their babies. It will also benefit the family and ultimately the whole community", Ms Hendry said.
If you feel you might be suffering from perinatal depression, contact your GP, midwife, child and family health Nurse or your local health service.
The NT Perinatal Mental Health Project is part of the National Perinatal Depression Initiative, funded by DHF and the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aging.
For more information on depression, including where to go for help, contact the beyondblue info line on 1300 22 4636 or go to www.beyondblue.org.au
Release date: 5 November 2009
