Personal stories of depression and anxiety in parents with new babies
Allie's story
I’m a professional, intelligent woman and I felt I should have been able to deal with it. Every day I would wake up and put on 'the face' to cover up what I was feeling…
Read Allie’s story
Debbie's story
The second pregnancy was so different because I already had a toddler…
Read Debbie’s story
Jane's story
I was diagnosed with depression during my second pregnancy following a very ‘loud’ argument with my husband over a bag of potting mix!
Read Jane’s story
Sophie's story
My first visit to a psychologist was shortly after I was diagnosed with antenatal depression. It was scary to start with because I felt so overwhelmed with negative feelings…
Read Sophie’s story
Rachel's story
Now that I am well, it is difficult to remember the thoughts and feelings during my darkest times. All I can recall is that I truly believed that I would never be happy or content again…
Read Rachel’s story
Tanja and Mark's story
Tanja
I kept telling myself that I couldn’t have depression. This was supposed to be the most beautiful time of my life. He was supposed to “complete me”…
Mark
She would wait for me to come home from work at the front door so that I could take the baby from her. I felt like I didn’t get any rest – working all day and taking care of the baby at night because she couldn’t stand to be near him…
Read Tanja and Mark’s story
More personal stories
Just Speak Up
For more personal stories visit Just Speak Up (external site), run by beyondblue (external site). The campaign aims to promote awareness of depression and anxiety, reduce stigma and provide information about where to get help. You can also upload your own story, either as a video or a written account. By speaking up, you can help to support women and families going through a difficult time.
Write from the Heart
From the Heart WA (external site) also features a number of personal stories from women. From the Heart WA (formerly known as the Post Natal Depression Support Association) is a volunteer run organisation providing support, understanding and information to women, partners and families who are affected by stress and depression related to pregnancy, childbirth, and the addition of a new child to the family.
Where to get help
- See your doctor, obstetrician, child health nurse or midwife
- Talk to a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist
- Phone the Pregnancy, Birth and Baby Helpline on 1800 882 436
- Phone the Mental Health Emergency Response Line – Perth metro 1300 55 788 or Peel 1800 676 822
- Phone Rural Link, an after-hours mental health phone service for rural communities, on 1800 552 002
- Phone the Post and Antenatal Depression Association helpline on 1300 726 306 (9.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday)
- Phone the Parenting Line on 1800 654 432
- Visit healthdirect (external site) or call 1800 022 222
Acknowledgements
Women and Newborn Health Service
This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.