Up to one in five Australian women experience depression or anxiety during pregnancy or in the year after birth. Many Perth parents struggle for months before seeking help, or are told it is "just the baby blues". Fathers and partners are affected too, and their experiences are often missed entirely. Early specialist support changes outcomes for parents and babies.
What is perinatal mental health?
The perinatal period covers pregnancy through to the end of the first year after birth. Perinatal mental health difficulties can include:
- Antenatal depression and anxiety during pregnancy
- Postnatal depression and anxiety
- Birth trauma and distress following a difficult delivery
- Adjustment difficulties and overwhelm in early parenthood
- Bonding difficulties with your baby
These conditions are common and treatable. They are not a reflection of your ability as a parent.
Signs it may be more than the baby blues
The baby blues typically settle within about two weeks. Consider seeking an assessment if you notice any of the following lasting longer:
- Persistent low mood, tearfulness or numbness beyond two weeks
- Inability to enjoy or bond with your baby
- Intrusive or frightening thoughts
- Sleep disturbance that is not explained by your baby's routine
- Withdrawing from your partner, family or friends
- Intense, constant worry about your baby's health or safety
Why integrated perinatal care matters
Perinatal mental health sits at the intersection of psychology and psychiatry. Some parents recover well with psychological therapy alone. Others need psychiatric assessment, for example when medication decisions during pregnancy or breastfeeding arise. Cygnet Clinic is one of the few Perth clinics offering both under one roof.
Marina Nelson, clinical psychologist, provides therapy for perinatal mood and adjustment difficulties, including EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and CBT. Dr Amit Dahiya, consultant psychiatrist with a perinatal psychiatry sub-specialty, provides specialist assessment including medication management that is safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. When a parent needs both, our psychologists and psychiatrists work together — no fragmented referrals between separate clinics. Read more about Marina Nelson and Dr Amit Dahiya, or see our psychology and psychiatry services.
A note for GPs
GPs referring perinatal patients can send referrals directly via our referral portal. Psychology referrals under a Mental Health Care Plan and psychiatric referrals are both accepted. Where urgency applies, our team will triage accordingly. Telehealth is available for parents who cannot easily attend with a newborn.
Getting started at Cygnet Clinic
We see parents at both our Midland and Fremantle clinics. Ask your GP for a referral or a Mental Health Care Plan, or book online. Medicare rebates apply, and telehealth appointments are available across Western Australia.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral?
A GP Mental Health Care Plan enables Medicare rebates for psychology sessions. A GP referral is required to see a psychiatrist. We accept referrals for both at Midland and Fremantle.
Can I take antidepressants while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Some medications can be used safely during pregnancy and breastfeeding, but this must be assessed individually. A perinatal psychiatrist can advise on the safest options for your situation. Never start, stop or change medication without specialist guidance.
Is this support only for mothers?
No. Fathers and partners can also experience perinatal depression and anxiety, and support is available for any parent or carer.
How soon can I be seen?
We prioritise new parents where possible, and telehealth appointments are available if travelling to clinic with a newborn is difficult.
What if I had a traumatic birth?
Birth trauma is a common perinatal presentation. Psychological therapy, including EFT and trauma-focused approaches, can help you process the experience.
What is the difference between baby blues and postnatal depression?
Baby blues typically resolves within about two weeks and involves mild, fluctuating mood changes. If symptoms persist beyond two weeks or interfere with daily life, it may be postnatal depression, which benefits from professional support.
Ready to make an appointment?
Book online or ask your GP for a referral to Cygnet Clinic. Midland and Fremantle locations, telehealth available.
Book Online Call Us