When Is the Best Time to Access Perinatal Mental Health Support?
If you’re pregnant, recently had a baby, or thinking about starting a family, you may be wondering:
“Is this the right time to get mental health support?”
“Is what I’m feeling normal, or am I struggling more than I should be?”
“Do I have to wait until things get really bad to ask for help?”
These are incredibly common questions, and the short answer is this:
The best time to access support is whenever you feel you need it.
You don’t have to wait for a crisis.
What Is Perinatal Mental Health?
Perinatal mental health refers to your emotional and psychological wellbeing during pregnancy and the first year after birth. It also includes experiences like:
Fertility challenges
Pregnancy loss or stillbirth
Birth trauma
Adjusting to parenthood
Perinatal anxiety or depression
PTSD or past trauma resurfacing
The perinatal period is a major life transition. Even in the most “normal” circumstances, it can feel emotionally intense, uncertain, and overwhelming. It’s okay—and often wise—to seek support early.
Signs You Might Benefit from Support
You don’t need a diagnosis or a major breakdown to reach out. Here are some signs that it might be time to talk to someone:
You feel persistently anxious, low, or overwhelmed
You’re struggling to connect with your baby or partner
You’re constantly second-guessing yourself
You’ve experienced a traumatic birth, loss, or medical complication
You’re exhausted beyond sleep deprivation and can’t seem to cope
You have intrusive thoughts, panic attacks, or feelings of numbness
You feel like you’re “not yourself” anymore
You just have a sense that something isn’t right
Even if your symptoms feel “mild” or hard to explain, they’re still valid. You don’t need to wait until you’re in crisis to deserve care.
Common Times People Reach Out for Support
Everyone’s journey is different, but here are some key moments when people often access perinatal mental health services:
🤰 During Pregnancy
Worries about birth, parenting, or bonding with baby
Fear related to previous loss or traumatic experiences
Emotional changes that feel difficult to manage
Preparing for a second or subsequent birth after a difficult first
🍼 In the Early Postpartum Months
Feeling emotionally flooded, disconnected, or anxious
Struggles with breastfeeding, sleep, or identity shifts
Symptoms of postnatal depression or anxiety
💭 Before Pregnancy (Pre-Conception)
Processing a previous traumatic experience
Anxiety about pregnancy or parenting
Emotional support during fertility treatment or decision-making
🧠 Anytime You Want to Prioritise Your Mental Health
You don’t need to be in crisis to access therapy. Some people reach out to build coping strategies, gain confidence, or process life changes in a supportive space.
Early Support Can Make a Big Difference
Getting help early can:
Prevent symptoms from worsening
Help you feel more prepared and confident
Strengthen your bond with your baby and loved ones
Make space for your own needs and healing
There is no “perfect” time to seek support—just the time that feels right for you.
A Final Word
You don’t need to suffer in silence or “just get on with it.”
You’re allowed to struggle. You’re allowed to ask for help.
And you’re absolutely worthy of support—no matter where you are in your perinatal journey.
At Nurure Geelong, we’re here to walk alongside you with compassion, not judgment. Whether you’re seeking reassurance, guidance, or deep emotional healing, we’re ready when you are.