Consumed by worry?
Let’s talk about perinatal anxiety
Parenthood can feel lighter with the right support.
Many parents feel worried or overwhelmed during pregnancy and early parenthood. Each person’s experience of perinatal anxiety is unique, and all are deserving of support.
We’re highlighting practical information and real stories about perinatal anxiety to increase awareness around the common signs and symptoms and provide free and easy options for seeking support for yourself or a loved one.
No matter how anxiety shows up for you, PANDA are here to chat.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by parenthood?
Signs and symptoms
Early signs and symptoms of perinatal anxiety
Real stories
Stories of perinatal anxiety
“When I was in hospital and too frightened of panic attacks to fall asleep, I read the lived experience stories on the PANDA website. In that moment, awake in the middle of the night in a hospital room, I felt like I was alone, suffocating in fear and that the feeling would never pass. Reading stories about other people who had been there, and come out the other side, gave me hope that was I was experiencing was temporary”
PANDA can help
How PANDA supports parents with anxiety
Everyone’s experience of anxiety during pregnancy and after having a baby is different. Everyone deserves support.
“Anxiety doesn't have to define your life forever. While it still has its ups and downs and can weave itself into different stages of life, anxiety no longer controls mine. Don't lose hope. Things really can get better, and you don't have to navigate it on your own. The right support can be a real lifeline.”
PANDA National Helpline
Find someone to talk to, 7 days a week
1300 726 306
Call 000 for police and ambulance if you or someone else are in immediate danger
Talk with friends or family
Consider talking about how you are feeling with someone you trust. This might be a friend or family member. Once you start talking you might be surprised at how many others have had similar experiences and the support they can provide you.
Talk with your doctor
Talking with your doctor can be an important step to getting the help you need. They should be able to give you non-judgemental support, assessment, diagnosis, and ongoing care and treatment. They can also refer you to specialists such as a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist.
Get help now
If you are having suicidal thoughts or are feeling disorientated it’s important to get help immediately. PANDA is not a crisis service, if you need immediate support call Lifeline 13 11 14 (24/7).
Mental health checklist
How are you going?
Everyone’s experience of pregnancy, birth and parenting is unique and brings different rewards and challenges.
Complete our online mental health checklist to see if what you’re experiencing or observing in a loved one could be a reason to seek help.
