Demand for perinatal support in Melbourne’s outer south-west suburbs is rising, driven by the lingering effects of the coronavirus pandemic. Mental health issues, financial distress, and family violence are on the rise, leading to a 33% increase in demand for postpartum support. Mercy Health, one of the few clinics in Victoria offering specialist inpatient mental health care for new mothers, receives around 300 referrals annually and admits about 80 mothers a year. The cases being treated are becoming more complex post-pandemic, with women facing greater psychosocial difficulties than ever before.
Women in the area are being discharged from hospital after giving birth at record rates, with one in five new mothers estimated to struggle with perinatal depression and anxiety. The culturally diverse community served by the health service adds another layer of complexity to the support needed by these new mothers. A midwife first noticed Shae Bradshaw’s struggle with postnatal depression while she was recovering from a C-section, prompting a referral to a psychologist. However, her mental health continued to deteriorate at home as she struggled with breastfeeding, sleep deprivation, and strained relationships.
Eventually, Bradshaw was admitted to the Mother Baby Unit for almost two months. The unit provides a supportive environment where new mothers receive group therapy, mindfulness practices, and individual support from nurses and psychiatrists. Social workers help navigate financial and housing difficulties, while empowering the mothers to care for themselves and their babies. Bradshaw praises the staff for saving her life and credits them with helping her get through her darkest moments. She emphasizes the importance of seeking help for struggling new mothers, urging others to prioritize their mental health for the sake of themselves and their babies.
Carmen Kong, a nurse unit manager at the unit, has witnessed an increase in the diagnosis of perinatal depression and anxiety in recent years. A study of pregnant Australian women found that a quarter experienced anxiety or depression after giving birth, a significant increase from a decade ago. Kong believes that societal expectations for mothers to have it all together may prevent some women from seeking help early enough. She finds fulfillment in seeing new mothers like Bradshaw thrive and regain their happiness and bond with their infants during their time at the unit.
Bradshaw’s journey through postnatal depression and anxiety has led her to see it as a gift and a learning experience. She encourages other struggling new mothers to seek support, emphasizing the importance of taking care of oneself for the well-being of both the mother and the baby. As Mother’s Day approaches, Bradshaw and her daughter Makenzie are looking forward to spending time with extended family and enjoying brighter days ahead. Despite the challenges she faced, Bradshaw is grateful for the support she received and the positive changes in her life. She hopes her story will inspire other mothers to prioritize their mental health and seek the help they need.
