Perinatal and Infant Mental Health
Overview
What the service is
The Perinatal and Infant Mental Health Service provides mental health care coordination to women experiencing mental health issues, and their families, within the perinatal period.
What we do
Clinicians provide mental health assessment, education on mental health, short term case management, referral and service management to women and their families; where the risk of current or potential mental health issues may poorly affect bonding and attachment between the mother and the baby, or parenting ability, and the safety of the baby.
The perinatal service also provides consultation, support and education to mental health clinicians, midwives and child and family nurses caring for perinatal women in the Illawarra and Shoalhaven areas. They aim to work in cooperation with hospital and community services, and non-government organisations, to build networks of support for vulnerable women and families, in accordance with the NSW Safe Start guidelines: Supporting Families Early Initiative (2009).
How to access this service
Referrals to the Mental Health Service are by calling:
Mental Health Line is a 24-hour telephone access service.
If it is an emergency call: 000
Contact Information
Wollongong NSW 2500
Downstairs (of Community Mental Health)
Mondays to Fridays (excluding public holidays): 8:30am to 5:00pm
How to get there
You can drive or use public transport. The nearest train station is Wollongong Railway Station, and buses service the area. The building is at the corner of Atchison and Burelli Streets, Wollongong.
Parking
Parking in the area is paid or time-limited street parking, or free or paid local parking lots.
Advice for disabled to get to the service
There is a ramp from the public footpath to the front door. Ask for further advice when you make your appointment.