The period of matrescence is a profound life transition where complex physical, mental and psychosocial challenges may be experienced. Factors such as birth trauma, social isolation, domestic and family violence, and lack of accessible support can all contribute to maternal distress. Less visible issues such as identity strain; fatigue due to interrupted sleep; the invisible mental load and infant care needs can create overwhelming and stressful experiences of early motherhood. Up to one in five women experience perinatal depression and anxiety with estimates that 5-14% of expectant and new mothers experience suicidal thoughts and behaviours. Suicide remains a leading cause of Maternal Death in Queensland. These more confronting experiences are often “unspeakable”— shrouded in stigma, fear, shame and guilt. Additionally, many more mothers remain undiagnosed and unsupported due to system fragmentation and lack of specialised services that understand the complex nuances involved in this period.

Effective perinatal mental health care requires seamless connection between screening, assessment, treatment, and ongoing healing, across primary care, maternity, community services, and specialist mental health providers. Moreso, felt relational safety must exist between the health professional and the mother. Compassionate practice and trauma-informed interventions can make these challenging experiences visible and actionable.

Consistent support for parents during this critical period are essential to promote both mental wellbeing of parents and positive health outcomes for infants. Participants will gain a framework for advancing integrated, trauma-informed, and person-centred care that responds to maternal mental health needs proactively, not reactively, and empowers women to seek help safely, early, and without shame.