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-sheets
Blogs: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/gidget-blog
Podcast: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/resources/1-in-5-mothers-1-in-10-fathers
Real 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-patient
Resource Library: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/resource-library
Other support services: https://www.gidgetfoundation.org.au/support/other-support-services
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