15.09.2022
Perinatal mental distress is an under-recognised condition that can have serious consequences for a woman and her baby, and potentially also lead to intergenerational cycles of compromised wellbeing.
This evidence brief gives an overview of the state of perinatal mental distress in Aotearoa, the underlying social and biological risk factors, and some prevention and management approaches. Early universal screening with a culturally appropriate tool is important, as is raised awareness of perinatal distress to reduce stigma and encourage women/whānau to seek help.
See also:
- Parental Well-being Podcast: Am I suffering from perinatal distress? (18:14)
Spotify | Apple podcast | Google podcast
- RNZ Morning report: Researchers want universal screening for maternal distress (6:12)
- Newstalk ZB Mike Hosking Breakfast: Calls for national screening programme to detect stressed expectant mothers (starts at 0:59)
- RNZ: ‘It has to be early’ – Call to screen all pregnant women for mental health
- Stuff: ‘There’s no shame’: Mum who had postnatal depression says NZ’s approach needs to change
- Today FM: “Stress… and emotional disorders in pregnancy are very common” (6:11)
- Illustration based on themes presented by Dr Felicia Low at the Helen Clark Foundation roundtable event on perinatal and maternal mental health:
