A recent survey conducted by Beyondblue, a national initiative which aims at fighting depression, has revealed that the myth that it is normal for women to be depressed during pregnancy and childbirth is still widespread and believed by many.

For the sake of study, 700 people were interviewed and almost half of them said that the depression is normal and does not require any treatment, a much widespread myth. Beyondblue is now looking at ensuring that more and more people are aware of the myth and doctors across the country are regularly screening pregnant women to ensure that there are no signs of depression.

"(So) just like women have routine blood tests and ultrasounds during pregnancy, we also would like to have mental health assessed routinely so that these conditions, when they are present, are picked up", shared Beyondblue Psychologist Nicole Highet. The initiatives have already started in full swing in New South Wales and Western Australia.

Beyondblue has shared that 1 woman in every 10 pregnant women, experiences depression, a condition which should be taken seriously and not as a part of the whole childbirth process.