Mental health
Maternal and paternal mental health are crucial factors in the overall wellbeing of a family. Mental health challenges during the perinatal period, such as depression, anxiety, and stress, can affect not only the parents but also the emotional and developmental outcomes of their children.
Why our work is so important?
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1 in 5
Women experience perinatal mental health disorders
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10-15%
Of women experience postpartum depression after childbirth.
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1 in 10
Women experience perinatal anxiety (during pregnancy and after childbirth)
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10-15%
Of fathers also experience postnatal depression.
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40-60%
of couples experience relationship strain due to maternal mental health issues
For mothers, untreated mental health issues can hinder bonding with their baby and lead to long-term health complications.
For fathers, the emotional toll of supporting a partner while adjusting to new parenthood can impact their ability to engage with their baby and provide support. Addressing mental health for both parents is vital to ensuring the health and stability of the entire family, fostering positive relationships and enhancing the early development of their child
Did you know?
That 1 in 5 women experience perinatal mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety, during pregnancy or in the first year after childbirth? Around 10–15% of women experience postpartum depression, with higher rates among those from disadvantaged backgrounds or with a history of mental health issues. Additionally, up to 1 in 10 women experience perinatal anxiety, often alongside depression. Mental health challenges are not limited to mothers—10–15% of fathers also experience postnatal depression, with some studies reporting rates as high as 25% among fathers whose partners face mental health challenges. These untreated maternal mental health issues can significantly impact child development, increasing the risk of emotional, cognitive, and behavioural problems. Moreover, 40–60% of couples experience substantial strain on their relationship due to the pressures associated with maternal mental health. WIRF is dedicated to advancing mental health research, with a strong focus on maternal, paternal, and infant well-being.
Mental health projects
Enable us to fund innovative research and vital support services
What’s new at WIRF
Stay up to date on our latest research breakthroughs, community initiatives, events and ways to get involved.
National honour for WIRF CEO Deb Portughes
WIRF is delighted to congratulate Chief Executive Officer Deb Portughes on being awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in recognition of her outstanding service to the community, including her contributions to wildlife conservation and the health of women, babies, and families.
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From fear to hope: Emily’s journey through placenta accreta
Emily Lopes’ pregnancy with daughter Lillian was marked by the life‑threatening diagnosis of placenta accreta. Transferred to specialist care, Emily was supported by multidisciplinary teams across three hospitals, leading to a complex but successful birth. Her story highlights the critical importance of specialised care, research, and early detection in improving outcomes for mothers and babies.
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Midwife-led birth debriefing shows promise for improving maternal mental health
In 2024, Dr Kate Buchanan received a WIRF Research Acceleration Award to evaluate a midwife‑led post‑birth debriefing tool to reduce perinatal depression and anxiety. Implemented at Fiona Stanley Hospital, the project improved trauma‑informed care, strengthened midwifery practice, informed policy, and supports statewide scale‑up.
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WIRF launches Art of Birthing workshops to strengthen complex birth skills
WIRF’s new Art of Birthing workshops deliver world‑class, hands‑on maternity training for healthcare professionals managing complex childbirth. Building on the internationally recognised DVD program, these accredited workshops support midwives, obstetricians and multidisciplinary teams across Western Australia to build skills, confidence and improve outcomes for women and babies.
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