Perinatal Mental Health Week shines a light on local services

9 Nov 2022

For people in the Casey-Cardinia region, the opening of St John of God Langmore Centre means there are more services in the area for mental health conditions, including perinatal mental health.

“While pregnancy and new parenthood is an exciting time, it can also be extremely difficult for parents,” claims St John of God Langmore Centre Chief Executive Officer Linda Allen, who adds that it is important for expecting and new parents to know that perinatal mental illness is common, but also very treatable ─ particularly with the assistance of St John of God Health Care’s qualified clinicians.

Affecting around 100,000 families across Australia each year, mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, stress, attachment difficulties, struggles with transitioning to parenthood and unresolved grief issues are just some of the reasons that might see one, or both parents needing to access Langmore Centre’s new perinatal mental health services. 

The antenatal (pre-birth) and postnatal (following birth) periods can be challenging emotionally, physically and mentally, and many people who are pregnant or who care for an infant can experience an exacerbation of a previous mental health condition or can develop one prior to having a baby and/or in the days or months after birth. Fortunately, the Langmore Centre recognises that parents or primary carers can be impacted and extends care to each of them.

The theme of this year’s Perinatal Mental Health Week is 'Building Your Community of Care', it’s a message that is strongly upheld at St John of God Langmore Centre. “We encourage our patients to bring along their partner or support person to room-in with them while they undertake treatment in our care,” explains Nurse Unit Manager Louise Gawler.

“Aside from the positive mental health benefits patients receive when they feel supported by a loved one, from a practical perspective, it’s helpful for parents and/or primary caregivers   to learn approaches to parenting together.”

Being admitted to hospital can be a daunting experience no matter what condition a patient may be getting treatment for. As Louise points  out, “Transitioning to parenthood can be extremely challenging, the responsibility for the wellbeing of an infant is often overwhelming. It takes time to get to know your baby and what they are trying to communicate. Having your partner or a support person with you provides the opportunity for you to learn about your infant together, while providing practical and emotional support to each other.” Louise adds, “For our patients in particular, it also allows them to focus more intently on their treatment, therapy and recovery, knowing their little one is close by and being cared for by their trusted partner.”

The 60-bed mental health hospital has a 12-bed unit dedicated to perinatal mental health and comprises of private rooms with ensuites, a baby bathroom, and a unit lounge and dining room with tea and coffee making facilities. Infants up to 18 months of age, if not yet walking, are also encouraged to room-in and are accommodated for in a separate nursery within a patient’s private room. Parents can take advantage of shared art, music and exercise therapy areas, a café, chapel, daily newspapers, free parking, outdoor courtyards and a sensory garden, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, pastoral care services and a quiet room.

“We have a highly skilled team of mental health professionals equipped to deliver the best possible patient care,” states Linda.

“Depending on individual needs, patients will be supported by mental health nurses, psychologists, psychiatrists, physicians, social workers, pastoral care practitioners, exercise physiologists, and occupational, art and music therapists. A lactation consultant and other allied health professionals will also be on hand to assist where needed. Our Langmore Centre takes a holistic approach to patient recovery with tailored services offered to treat a patient’s entire being. This means, not only addressing their mental health condition but their physical, emotional and spiritual needs as well,” explains Linda.

Feeling a little emotional and anxious after the arrival of a new baby is normal but in general symptoms of perinatal anxiety or depression can include: feeling sad and teary for no obvious reason; persistent feelings of worry or fear often to do with the health and wellbeing of their baby; persistent feelings of panic; persistent irritability; trouble sleeping; mood swings; tiredness and lack of energy. 

“Although these are the most common signs, there are others,” says Louise. “If you’re symptoms persist and you’re concerned that you or a loved one may be experiencing perinatal anxiety or depression, the best thing to do is to make an appointment with your GP as soon as you can so they can connect you with the most appropriate supports and resources available. You can also call our St John of God Langmore Centre on 03 9773 7000 for more information on our facility and mental health services, as well as seek guidance on the admission process.” 

The addition of the Langmore Centre, located at 3 Gibb Street, Berwick, enhances St John of God Health Care’s existing health care scope in the region. Services already include acute medical, surgical and maternity services located at St John of God Berwick Hospital, rehabilitation services at St John of God Frankston Rehabilitation Hospital, along with outpatient counselling, group therapy and mental health support for families at St John of God Raphael Services on Fairholme Boulevard in Berwick.