Our philosophy

The perinatal period (the period from conception to the first year following the birth of a baby) is the time in a woman’s life when she is most likely to develop mental health problems.

Perinatal depression alone is currently the leading cause of maternal death in developed countries.  The cost of these conditions is significant – from a personal, social, developmental and economic standpoint.

COPE’s philosophy is that all women, men and families should have access to timely and effective screening, management, treatment and care.

COPE is making this possible through:

  • Providing a national, dedicated focus to perinatal mental health
  • Developing strong, strategic partnerships
  • Supporting research to inform the most effective and efficient approaches to treatment and intervention
  • Investment and an ongoing commitment to improving outcomes for mothers, fathers, infants and future generations.