Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are even more vulnerable to experiencing high levels of psychological distress, including feelings of depression and anxiety. Postnatal anxiety and depression can be a frightening and isolating experience as parents try to deal with their symptoms at the same time as needing to care for a new baby, and sometimes other children as well.
In a cruel twist of fate, not only is new motherhood often a time when we find ourselves somewhat isolated and ‘removed’ from our tried and trusted networks, it is also a time when we are at enhanced risk of depression and anxiety.
So, what’s the answer? The truth is, I don’t know. Better (and more widely accepted by society) opportunities for paternal leave wouldn’t hurt, and equitable, accessible psychological care is vital. I do know that expecting other new mums to act as the principal support for their counterparts is not only unfair, but potentially dangerous. The oft cited ‘village’, I’m sure it is filled with aunties, and crones, and pseudo big brothers and sisters, sharing the load to contribute to nurture our newest members of society and their carers.
Now I find myself through the intense, beautiful, hyper vigilant time of brand-new motherhood, I am ready to ask: what do you need? How can I help? What can I do? Reach out, I’ll answer.
If you are experiencing mental distress, some helpful links below:
https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
https://www.panda.org.au/
https://www.lifeline.org.au/
Haylee Hackenberg is a children’s author, a pre-service teacher and a mama to two. Striving for gentle, respectful parenting, she shares on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
