Postnatal Depression
Postnatal Depression (PND) is the term used to describe depression that is experienced after the birth of a baby. PND is common with around 1 in 7 new mothers being affected. Becoming a parent or coping with more children is a major change that requires many adjustments at a variety of levels.
Signs and symptoms:
- Low mood – feeling sad, miserable and down
- Loss of interest and pleasure in usual activities
- Fatigue
- Marked changes in sleep
- Marked changes in appetite
- Crying alot
- Feelings of guilt, hopelessness and helplessness
- Feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope
- Low self esteem
- Social withdrawal
Treatment
The good news is that PND can be treated and seeking help early means recovery can be quicker. Psychologists are trained experts in treating PND by helping people feel and cope better.
Medicare Rebates
Medicare rebates are available for psychological treatment by registered psychologists under the Australian Government’s Better Access to Mental Health Care initiative. This scheme provides considerable financial assistance to people living with mental heath problems, allowing them greater access to psychologists and providing more affordable mental healthcare.
To access the Medicare Rebate, you need your GP, psychiatrist or paediatrician to complete a detailed mental health assessment and prepare a Mental Health Treatment Plan before referring you to a psychologist.
You may be eligible to receive Medicare rebates immediately into your bank account when paying for your session by cash, credit card, EFTPOS or cheque at all People Psychology locations.