Postnatal Depression (PND) & Postnatal Anxiety (PNA)
Postnatal Depression and Anxiety Support in Belmont, Geelong
Welcoming a new baby can be both joyful and overwhelming. For many new parents, the transition to parenthood comes with unexpected emotional challenges. In Australia, around 1 in 5 mothers and 1 in 10 fathers experience postnatal depression or anxiety. These conditions are common, but they can feel isolating and difficult to talk about.
Signs of Postnatal Depression and Anxiety
Postnatal depression and anxiety can look different for everyone, but common experiences include:
- Persistent sadness, tearfulness, or feelings of emptiness
- Excessive worry about the baby or fear of not being a “good enough” parent
- Fatigue, loss of interest, or difficulty bonding with the baby
- Irritability, restlessness, or racing thoughts
- Changes in appetite or sleep (beyond what is expected with a newborn)
- Feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness
If these symptoms last more than two weeks or interfere with daily life, professional support can help.
Causes of Postnatal Depression and Anxiety
These conditions often arise from a mix of factors, including:
- Hormonal and physical changes after birth
- A significant change to daily life and identity
- Traumatic birthing experiences
- Lack of sleep and exhaustion
- Stressful life events, relationship strain, or lack of support
- Previous experiences of anxiety, depression, or trauma
- Unrealistic expectations of parenthood or pressure to “cope”
How Psychodynamic Therapy Can Help
At Darvell Psychology in Belmont, Geelong, I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy to support parents experiencing postnatal depression or anxiety. This therapeutic approach looks beyond symptoms to explore underlying emotional struggles, past experiences, and relationship patterns that may affect how you feel as a parent.
Through therapy, you can:
- Safely share your experiences without fear of judgment
- Understand the deeper roots of postnatal distress
- Strengthen your ability to cope with the challenges of parenthood
- Build self-compassion and healthier ways of relating to yourself and your baby
- Rediscover confidence, calm, and connection in your parenting journey
Support for Parents in Belmont, Geelong
You don’t have to go through this alone. At Darvell Psychology, I provide a supportive and confidential space to help you process your feelings and find ways forward.
If you are seeking postnatal depression or anxiety support in Belmont or Geelong, psychodynamic therapy may help you heal, adjust, and feel more grounded as you navigate the challenges of early parenthood.