Reach out

PANDA, an association that specialises in post and ante-natal depression, has launched a national helpline to offer people around Berwick support and advice on tackling the issue.
You can now phone 1300 726 306 Monday to Friday from 9am to 7pm.
The national not-for-profit organisation has been helping people for over 25 years, and estimates around 77,000 Australians suffer from post-natal depression which affects one in seven new mothers and one in 10 new fathers.
PANDA’s CEO Belinda Horton says people need to realise help and solutions are available.
“We’re alarmed that there are clearly a huge number of women and men out there who are suffering in silence and are not getting help,” Ms Horton said.
“We want to highlight studies clearly show maternal and paternal depression is linked. Post-natal depression can happen to anyone.
“Society expects people to cope and expects people to think that everything surrounding a new baby should be joyous from start to finish.
“Of course, any new baby brings huge joy. Nevertheless, it’s a huge change for any parents. Sometimes anxiety quickly turns into depression.
“We’ve got to get away from this ‘perfect’ image surrounding parenting because it’s a very big time for people and when reality kicks in, some people may find it difficult.”
Ms Horton wants people to know that post-natal depression can be dealt with.
“There’s a huge amount of help out there,” Ms Horton said.
“With medical assistance, and in some cases anti-depressants, people obviously overcome the hurdles. It’s important if you’re supporting someone with post-natal depression that you are actively involved, provide emotional support, be patient and reassuring and encourage your partner not to bottle up feelings.
“Post-natal depression is never anybody’s fault, so don’t blame yourself.”
For more information, call the PANDA hotline, or visit www.panda.org.au