The aim of this module is to help midwives, child health nurses, and Aboriginal Health Practitioners develop the necessary skills to identify and support Aboriginal women at risk of experiencing a mental health condition during pregnancy or with a young baby.  This module provides a detailed description of how to perform a routine psychosocial assessment with Aboriginal clients using the Kimberley Mum’s Mood Scale. It also explains pathways for follow-up and referral, and the importance of psychosocial care.   Need to know definitions Perinatal – refers to the period during and after pregnancy  Antenatal – is the period during pregnancy Postnatal or postpartum – is the period after pregnancy (usually up to one year post-birth) * Perinatal mental health conditions include both antenatal and postpartum conditions.  Identifying early warning signs of perinatal mental health conditions Early signs of perinatal mental health conditions can be identified through psychosocial assessment during routine antenatal and postnatal care. A psychosocial assessment is used to recognise the presence of psychosocial factors that may increase the risk of perinatal mental health conditions, and assess for symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. It can also help to identify protective factors that support a woman in her efforts to manage her mental health. It may be performed by a midwife, nurse, Aboriginal Health Practitioner, mental health nurse, GP, obstetrician, or allied health professional at any time during pregnancy and in the first year after childbirth.  All health professionals who provide care in the perinatal period should have training on how to complete a comprehensive psychosocial assessment and provide culturally safe care to women and families. While many tools are available to help assist with assessment, clinical judgement is always the most important factor in decision making about the appropriate care for mothers and families.   Performing a comprehensive psychosocial assessment A comprehensive psychosocial assessment using the Kimberley Mum’s Mood Scale involves:       Screening for symptoms of depression or anxiety       Assessing psychosocial risk and protective factors through yarning   Read more