Perinatal Mental Health: Impacts on Families and How GPs Can Help

In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Julia Rawlinson is joined by Dr Lynette Griffiths, GP registrar and perinatal clinical psychologist, and Dr Erin Seeto, clinical and counselling psychologist and Clinical Services Manager at the Gidget Foundation. Discussing the topic of perinatal mental health, focusing on the impact on families, the healthcare system, and the broader community.Beginning with an overview of the prevalence and spectrum of perinatal mental health conditions, covering not only postnatal depression and anxiety but also a range of issues such as PTSD, birth trauma, OCD, and the significance of intrusive thoughts. Highlighting the effects of untreated perinatal mental health issues, including disruptions to parent-infant bonding, relationship stress, and risks to the mental and physical wellbeing of children. Providing practical strategies and advice for GPs to support and assess parents. The importance of routine screening for mental health concerns during both antenatal and postnatal visits. As well as the necessity of validating parents’ experiences, normalising mental health struggles, and engaging both mothers and partners in screening, to which their mental health may be different across genders.Discussing key resources and support available for families and GPs across Australia, including telehealth services, group programs, public mental health services, and helplines such as those provided by the Gidget Foundation and PANDA.Links & Resources:For Clients: Fact Sheets: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/resources/fact-sheetsBlogs: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/gidget-blogPodcast: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/resources/1-in-5-mothers-1-in-10-fathersReal Stories: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/real-stories/gidget-angel-stories For Health Professionals: How To Refer: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/health-professionals/how-to-refer-a-patientResource Library: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/resource-libraryOther support services: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/support/other-support-servicesThe Good GP Podcast is a proud member of the Talking HealthTech Podcast Network - the premier audio destination for cutting-edge insights and thought leadership in healthcare delivery, innovation, digital health, healthcare ICT, and commercialisation. Learn more at www.talkinghealthtech.com/podcast/networkIf you have any questions or would like to contact The Good GP, send an email to [email protected]. Visit www.thegoodgp.com.au for previous episodes and more information.