In fact, with growing acceptance of this, the age-old term “mother-baby unit” has been discarded in recent years in favour of the more reflective and inclusive title of - “parent-infant units”.
Here’s why:
With one in 10 dads at risk of experiencing a decline in mental health and plenty of same-sex partners, transgender, non-biological and adoptive parents, as well as parents of surrogate children tasked with looking after the welfare of newborn babies it makes sense to widen the scope in line with the care options available and support provided.
At St John of God Langmore Centre, our Parent Infant Unit recognises that both the birth and non-birth parent and/or primary caregiver can experience depression and anxiety during pregnancy and in the aftermath of having a baby.
In addition to that, research suggests that the role of a non-birth partner is pivotal as birthing parents are likely to seek and receive the support of their partner more than any other individual.
Furthermore, when a birthing parent is distressed, there is a reasonable likelihood that the supporting partner may also be suffering ─ with data indicating that up to 50 per cent of couples where the birthing parent is depressed, the partner or other primary caregiver will be too.
Given infants and children may also be impacted when one or both parents are experiencing a compromise to their mental health, our holistic approach to treatment and recovery encourages the involvement and the inclusion of the entire family.
About St John of God Langmore Centre’s Parent Infant Unit
Our Parent Infant Unit is a safe place for new parents experiencing postnatal depression and/or anxiety to seek care, guidance and expertise on their journey to recovery.
It’s estimated that four out of five parents experience the baby blues in the first week or so after giving birth. It’s a common side-effect that usually subsides within a few weeks. For some new parents however, the feelings of depression and anxiety can linger and accessing clinical support may be a beneficial, if not necessary, option to consider.
How can we help?
Firstly, it’s helpful to understand the difference between the baby blues and postnatal depression/anxiety.
It’s completely normal to have difficulty differentiating between the two because most new parents feel overwhelmed, sleep-deprived, moody, anxious, tearful, or all of the above. With postnatal depression 20 per cent of new parents will continue to experience feelings of sadness, numbness or hopelessness that last longer than the baby blues are expected to and are severe enough to impact your ability to cope with and enjoy daily life.
If the low mood you have been feeling has not dissipated within a couple of weeks or appears to be getting worse, we recommend making an appointment with your GP or Maternal Child Health Nurse. Once referred we can tailor a treatment plan that will not only address your mental health but your entire being.
Parents and primary caregivers are supported by:
- mental health nurses
- psychologists
- psychiatrists
- physicians
- social workers
- pastoral care
- exercise physiologists
- art and music therapists
- lactation consultant
- other allied health professionals.
And can take advantage of:
- private rooms with ensuite and accommodation for partners
- dedicated in-room nursery for infants up to 18 months of age and not yet walking
- safe and secure facility
- shared art, music and exercise therapy areas
- café
- chapel
- daily newspapers
- free parking
- outdoor courtyards and sensory garden
- laundry facilities
- Wi-Fi
- pastoral care services
- sensory room.
St John of God Langmore Centre has a Parent and Infant Unit (often referred to as a mother-baby unit) which provides tailored support to parents struggling with the challenges of parenthood. You can talk to your GP about getting a referral to our inpatient or outpatient programs or contact our centre on (03) 9773 7071 for more information.
