Join news presenter Davina Smith in a podcast that tells the silent truth of Perinatal Depression and Anxiety (PNDA) loudly, in raw and honest accounts from some of the one in five mothers and one and ten fathers living with it. Paired with expert insights from psychologists and counsellors in the field, this podcast, made in partnership with Gidget Foundation Australia, explores the realities of parenthood, breaks down stigma surrounding perinatal mental health, and gives you the tools on how and when to seek support.  

Craig thought he went into parenthood prepared, but what he never expected was that it would be him asking for help. Speaking to host Davina Smith, Craig shares how he almost crumbled under the weight of being ‘superdad’, and how an average ferry ride home from work left him fearful of what he might do next. Stigma, as well as the unique challenges fathers and non-birthing partners face when becoming parents is discussed, with psychotherapist Derek Ebbs joining the conversation to reveal just how beneficial support for fathers can be. 

Read more about Craig's story on the Gidget Foundation Australia website.

Craig’s Story: Accepting help as a father

At 22 weeks pregnant, Annabel got the news no parent wants to hear; her unborn son Miles would not survive. Talking to host Davina Smith, Annabel reveals how grief almost consumed her, and how she learnt to live with loss through sharing her story. Contending with confusing medical jargon, adjusting to life after loss, and supporting parents through grief is discussed, with Clinical Psychologist Chris Barnes from Gidget Foundation Australia joining the conversation to give insight into the impact of child loss on mental health and the unique experience parents face as they work through an unimaginable pain.  

You can find out more about Annabel and Miles Apart here, or read more about her story on the Gidget Foundation Australia website.

Annabel’s story: Reducing the silence surrounding baby loss

When Chelsea Pottenger fell pregnant, she was on cloud nine. But that elation was short lived when just months after giving birth, an anxious downward spiral put her own life at risk. Speaking to host Davina Smith, Chelsea tells the story of an easy-going pregnancy, that ultimately resulted in an admission to a mother baby unit. Perfectionism, breastfeeding challenges, and finding purpose after trauma are discussed, with Counsellor Amelia Walker from Gidget Foundation Australia joining the discussion  to unpack exactly what PNDA is and how to seek help.  

You can find our more about Chelsea and EQ Minds here, or read more about her story on the Gidget Foundation Australia website.

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