Arabic version: نصائح للآباء الجدد للاستفادة من خدمات الدعم النفسي المجانية
New parents grappling with anxiety and depression are encouraged to take advantage of free counselling services available across Australia. According to ABC News, many new parents, particularly from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, often feel isolated and unsure about seeking help.
Chenzi Dong, a Melbourne lawyer and new mother, shared her experience of feeling overwhelmed after the birth of her son. She expressed feelings of desperation and guilt, highlighting the emotional challenges many new parents face. Research indicates that approximately one in five women and one in ten expecting or new fathers experience perinatal anxiety and depression in Australia.
To combat this issue, the federal government has funded the establishment of numerous Perinatal Mental Health Centres, known as Gidget Houses, across the country. Recently opened clinics in locations such as Berry Springs in the Northern Territory and Launceston in Tasmania are part of this initiative, which aims to provide new parents with access to ten Medicare bulk-billed psychological counselling sessions each year.
Experts emphasize the importance of seeking help, noting that many parents from CALD backgrounds may not recognize their symptoms as severe. Alyssa Lalor from Gidget Foundation Australia pointed out that these parents often feel disconnected and lack the support they need during what should be a joyful time in their lives. Cathy Ngo, a Gidget Foundation ambassador, echoed this sentiment, urging new mothers to prioritize their mental health and seek professional assistance.
Research also highlights the additional hurdles faced by parents from CALD backgrounds, including limited access to familial support and cultural stigmas surrounding mental health. Dr. Jane Fisher from Monash University noted that many migrant women may take longer to navigate available support services due to language barriers and cultural differences. Organizations like PANDA are working to provide resources in 40 different languages to better assist these families.
