Perinatal Wellbeing

Having a baby is one of the most significant events in your lifetime. It affects so many areas of your life, your relationships, and your identity. 

The challenges faced with the arrival of a new baby are seemingly endless - recovering from birth, breastfeeding, lack of sleep, feeling overemotional, coping with an unsettled baby, bonding with your baby, body image, managing priorities, managing advice from others, and relationship dynamics with your partner, friends and family. 

Many women (too often) just brush off negative thoughts or feelings, putting them down to lack of sleep, hormones or 'baby blues'. Many feel pressure to live up to their initial expectations of parenthood, or how motherhood is portrayed in the media. This can be even more difficult when it appears that others are coping and managing. Sadly, many women perceive asking for help as a failure on their part. 

The truth is, becoming parents and parenthood is harder for some than others for a whole range of reasons. It is not your fault. The earlier you seek help, the better. By looking after yourself first, you will be best placed to then nurture the needs of your baby and others, as well as giving yourself the opportunity to have an experience of parenthood which is as positive as it can be.

Here are some signs to look out for that may indicate you could benefit from professional support:

Based on material from the Centre of Perinatal Excellence - www.cope.org.au

Thriving During Year 12

Does the beginning of the school year fill you with excitement or dread?

Especially for those in Year 12, many students can find the prospect of their final year overwhelming. So many of my patients fit in this category, but I'm always excited when Year 12 students come in to see me at the start of the year. That way, we can work together to set them up in a way that not only protects their wellbeing, but sets them on a path to thrive.  

High school pressure can be too much at times. If you, your child, or someone you know is struggling to cope, let them know that there is help available.

Here are 5 Top Tips for Making the Most out of your Final Year at School:

Dr. Amanda Hale is the Principal Clinical Psychologist in a team with offices in Bondi Junction and Killara. The practice specialises in working with children and adolescents, using evidence-based techniques and client-centred care to maximise wellbeing.