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?
-
1 in 5
Women experience perinatal mental health disorders
-
10-15%
Of women experience postpartum depression after childbirth.
-
1 in 10
Women experience perinatal anxiety (during pregnancy and after childbirth)
-
10-15%
Of fathers also experience postnatal depression.
-
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.
Governor-General hosts celebration of WIRF’s 50 years of research and impact
The Women and Infants Research Foundation celebrated its 50th anniversary at a special event hosted by Her Excellency the Honourable Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, at Admiralty House in Sydney on 23 October.
Read more
WIRF Global Institute for Women and Babies
The WIRF Global Institute for Women and Babies will bring together world-leading scientists, clinicians, universities, hospitals and industry to rapidly solve some of the most urgent health challenges facing women and babies – here in Australia and around the world.
Read more
Reframing ‘Irregular’: Not Rare, Not Insignificant, No Longer Overlooked
On Friday 28 August 2026, WIRF welcomed more than 150 guests to its annual WIRF Scientific Dialogue, with this year’s theme being Reframing ‘Irregular’: Not Rare, Not Insignificant, No Longer Overlooked.
Read more