Words by Courtney McIntosh
This week marks Perinatal Mental Health Week (23–29 November), a national initiative that feels especially close to my heart, having walked my own path through postnatal depression and anxiety. And this year, new research released ahead of the campaign exposes just how deep the gaps in support truly are for Australian parents.
According to the national survey, only one in five parents with a child under two received any form of professional perinatal mental health support. Even more startling, almost one in three were never once asked about their mental health by a healthcare provider.
At a time when perinatal depression and anxiety affects up to 20% of mothers and 10% of fathers, these numbers highlight a critical urgency: too many parents are struggling in silence.
“No parent should face early parenthood alone.” This is the message echoed by Viv Kissane OAM, CEO of Peach Tree Perinatal Wellness and Co-Founder of the Perinatal Mental Health Alliance. She explains: “No parent’s journey is the same. What matters most is that every parent feels truly seen, understood and supported in a way that fits their own journey.”
Her words mirror what so many parents feel, that early parenthood can be joyful, but also overwhelming, isolating and emotionally disorienting.
The survey revealed that 46% of parents rely primarily on their partner for emotional support. Yet 36% admitted they wished they had more opportunities to speak with people who truly understood what they were going through.
And it’s true, connection saves lives. Peer support, shared experiences, and simply being asked, “Are you really okay?” can be the first step in someone seeking help.
This year, 68 organisations have come together to raise awareness and improve pathways to care. Some of the incredible groups doing vital work include:
- The Gidget Foundation who offer telehealth psychology sessions, specialised perinatal support, and nationwide programs for expecting and new parents.
- Peach Tree Perinatal Wellness who create safe spaces for parents through peer-led support groups.
- PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) who operate a national helpline and support for families experiencing perinatal mental health challenges.
- COPE (Centre of Perinatal Excellence) who provides resources, screening tools and advocacy for better systemic care.
- The Parenthood who continues to advocate for improved policy, parental leave, and support systems for families.
These organisations are helping shape a more compassionate, accessible and informed landscape for parents across Australia but the data shows we still have a long way to go.
This year’s theme for Perinatal Mental Health Week is “What you need, when you need it,” reflects the diversity of perinatal mental health journeys. Throughout the week, daily themes will spotlight the unique experiences of:
- Rural parents
- Grief and loss
- Peer support
- The pressures of fatherhood
- Multiple births
- Premature babies
- Post-partum psychosis
From parents navigating fertility grief, to fathers struggling once paternity leave ends, to mothers experiencing intrusive thoughts, the message is clear: every story deserves to be heard and supported.
Where to find help
If you or someone you know is finding early parenthood difficult, the Perinatal Support Finder is an excellent place to start. It offers personalised pathways to support, whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, birth trauma, identity shifts or simply need to connect with others who understand.
You can also explore more brave stories from parents and find additional support services, articles and resources through the Perinatal Mental Health Week website and participating organisations.
Perinatal Mental Health Week is a reminder that no parent should ever feel they have to push through alone. Support exists, it is accessible, and it can truly change lives.
