ST John of God’s Raphael Centre is encouraging parents who are suffering from depression, anxiety or other mental health issues during or after birth to contact the centre.
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The Kangaroo Flat health centre was opened in November after Bendigo was identified as an area with a need for the service.
Raphael service manager Tina Winzar said while they had been happy with the amount of people seeking their services, she was certain more people could benefit from it.
“We have had a steady stream of referrals but we are still keen to get the word out there,” she said. “There are well and truly more people that could be assisted by the service.”
Ms Winzar said there had been a mix of people referred by GPs, and some self-referred.
“We do have people calling or coming in who are having some difficulties adjusting to parenting or who are suffering some mental health issues, which is quite normal and understandable,” she said.
“Becoming a parent is a difficult and challenging thing.” But many people found it difficult to ask for help from services such as the Raphael Centre, Ms Winzar said.
“Even if we think we’re not travelling that well, taking the first step to make the phone call is very difficult,” she said.
“But if you’re feeling at all in doubt, give us a call and we can have a chat about how things are going.
“If we don’t think we’re the right service for you we’ll put you in touch with one that can (help).”
The Raphael Centre is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and can be contacted on 5447 0771.
