It’s perinatal mental health week, which aims to raise awareness and support the 1 in 5 new mums and 1 in 10 new dads that experience perinatal depression and anxiety. It’s important to know that perinatal anxiety and depression is more than just the general ups and downs that come with parenthood.

There are many signs and symptoms, including some that are not listed here. Some may include:

• feeling sad or low, or crying without obvious reason
• persistent worry or fear about the health of your baby
• difficulty sleeping even when your baby is sleeping
• withdrawing from friends and family
• feeling constantly tired or lacking energy
• finding it difficult to concentrate or remember
• abrupt mood swings
• panic attacks

If you or someone you know experiences any of these for more than two weeks, please seek support by calling the PANDA national helpline on 1300 726 306.

Here at KIC we are all about empowering our community to exercise and move their bodies, and this week we want to highlight the benefits of exercise on perinatal health for new and expectant mums. 

Parenthood is a major adjustment period; there is so much change in our bodies, routines, relationships, and sleep patterns. For many new parents it’s normal to experience feelings of sadness or anxiety as you try to accommodate this new life, not to mention the impact of external pressure from society, social media, and other family members as you’re trying to do so. 

So whether it’s getting out for a walk in the sunshine, or rolling out your mat for a little quiet yoga flow, exercise can have significant benefits for your mental health as a new parent. 

Happy hormones: Exercise has been shown to be associated with positive increases in serotonin & endorphins, which are your body’s ‘happiness hormones’, providing a mood-boosting lift. 

Sleep: It’s no secret that your sleep cycles are significantly impacted both during pregnancy and after the arrival of your little one. Exercise is known to improve sleep quality, alleviate day-time sleepiness, and can reduce sleep onset time which all equates to a more refreshing sleep. 

You time: Exercise provides an opportunity for you to reconnect with yourself and your body, and give your mind a break from whatever else is happening around you. Alternatively, joining a community like KICBUMP can provide an opportunity for important social connection as you’re exercising with other mummas who understand the journey you’re going through.