More and better targeted support is needed to help expectant and new mothers battling depression, Queensland Mental Health Commissioner Dr Lesley van Schoubroeck said today.
Releasing consultation results for the Commission’s Perinatal Infant Mental Health Service Enhancement Discussion Paper, the Commissioner said feedback indicated the importance of community-based assistance.
“The consultation showed the focus needs to be on enhancement of community-based supports, as well as clinical services.
“Survey respondents identified sustainable support for the non-government sector as a game-changing strategy,” Dr van Schoubroeck said.
“The clear message is that more assistance is needed, but it must be well-targeted to get meaningful help to mothers, fathers and infants with mental health issues.
“The consistent view is that greater access to community-based support would help prevent the development of postnatal depression, reduce the severity and duration of such problems, and aid referrals to specialist treatment services when needed,” the Commissioner said.
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Further information
Download the short report (PDF, 171KB)
Download the full research report (PDF, 662KB)
