Pre & Post Natal Mental Health

Becoming a new parent is both an exciting and joyous moment however, it certainly does not come without its’ challenges. As we know the physical changes during pregnancy are clear however, the changes surrounding your mood and feelings can be both new and scary for your client. Pre & Post Natal Mental Health is important and we should talk about it rather it being a taboo.

According to Beyond Blue Australia, Antenatal depression (during pregnancy) affects up to one in ten women in Australia. Postnatal depression can impact up to one in six women in Australia and may develop from one month to one-year post-birth.*

Pregnancy and birthing is an adjustment not only for the mother but also her loved ones around her and often women can feel as though they need ‘to do it all’ and put their own needs last. So how is it as a fitness professional you can support your client as she adjusts to motherhood?

1. Know the signs – Symptoms of depression can be a little more difficult to identify in both pre and postnatal stages. Lack of sleep, loss of appetite, mood changes can all be attributed to adjusting to life as a new parent, however, if these symptoms persist for a period of time over 2 weeks it recommended to seek support.
2. Encourage rest and support – It is easy to say to a client “oh just get some rest”, any new mother (or father) will look at you blankly and think it is not that easy. Be active in discussing strategies with your client about how they may be able to increase their rest i.e. encourage your client to have some ‘me’ time with the support of their families/friends.
3. Do not be afraid of support services. We are so lucky to live in a country with easily accessible support services. If you think your client may benefit from external support suggest they speak to their GP in the first instance to discuss the best course of action.

Asking open-ended questions before your session can provide an insight into how your client is coping, questions such as below will open what can be at a times a difficult dialogue:

• How are you feeling today / this week / this month?
• What have you done for yourself this week?
• How are your sleeping patterns? Have you noticed any changes?
• How is the rest of the family adjusting to the new addition to the family?

Opening a dialogue will encourage and normalise discussion of any challenges and will provide a great opportunity for you to learn what your client may need from us to further support them in this journey.

Pre & Post Natal Mental Health

Remember, difficultly adjusting to parenthood is never a sign of weakness, it can impact both new mothers and fathers and whilst we are not expected to have all the answers or act as a psychologist, we can work effectively within our scope to provide the best service possible to our clients.

For more information visit Beyond Blue Australia https://healthyfamilies.beyondblue.org.au/pregnancy-and-new-parents/maternal-mental-health-and-wellbeing/depression

​To learn more about Antenatal & Post Natal Training, contact Level Up Training Courses at www.leveluptc.com.au