New and expecting parents in southern Brisbane now have access to free mental health services, thanks to the newly established Australian Government-funded perinatal mental health centre at Greenslopes Private Hospital.
Officially opened today by Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, Emma McBride, the centre aims to address the growing demand for perinatal mental health care. It will offer psychological support to parents without any out-of-pocket costs, although a referral from a GP, including a mental health care plan, is required.
The Albanese Labor Government has committed $26.2 million over four years to establish a network of 12 perinatal mental health services nationwide, which are expected to assist over 2,800 parents annually.
Perinatal depression and anxiety affect nearly 100,000 Australians each year, and these conditions can have long-lasting impacts on both parents and children. Left untreated, perinatal mental health issues can severely affect a child’s emotional, social, physical, and cognitive development.
All Perinatal Mental Health Centres, including the one at Greenslopes, are operated by Gidget Foundation Australia.
Quotes from Assistant Minister McBride:
“We know that up to one in five women and one in ten men will experience anxiety and/or depression during the perinatal period, which can last up to 12 months after childbirth,” said Minister McBride. “It is a priority for the Albanese Labor Government to ensure that expecting and new parents in South Brisbane have access to specialist, free care through trusted organisations like Gidget Foundation Australia.”
“This new service at Greenslopes is an important step in providing the care and support that local parents and families need.”
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