What about the strong exhaust, petrol and chemical fumes we inhale every day wherever we go?

It takes all types of people to make a world – each with their own weaknesses and strengths and ways of coping with this rat race of a world we're living in. 

We don't know whom to trust anymore because we've been lied to so often and the abuse of modern technology appears to be taking away people’s capability to think constructively for themselves. 

Also the trouble is that our natural immune system, which should be building up resistance against disease and infections, is being blocked by these half-truths. 

At least smokers are not physically hurting other people as drug addicts and alcoholics do. 

They should be the ones the do-gooders turn their attention to, or is that too much like hard work?

PERINATAL describes the period from conception through to about a year after the baby is born.

Depression and anxiety are very common at this time, but it’s not just women who can be affected. The mental health of new dads can also be at risk.

One in seven new mums and up to one in 10 new dads is likely to experience postnatal depression – and during pregnancy, up to one in 10 women and one in 20 expectant dads will struggle with antenatal depression.

Untreated depression can not only affect a new mum’s relationship with her baby and its development, her relationship with her partner and other children, but it can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts.

Fewer than 50 per cent of mothers seek help due to fear of stigma, perceptions that they will be seen as a failure, because they don’t really understand depression and anxiety or have concerns about passing medication to the baby through breast milk.

Many pregnant women are very strict about not drinking alcohol or eating certain foods during pregnancy for fear of harming their baby’s development.

I would encourage them to give just as much thought to how they can protect the mental health of their child. The best way to support your baby’s development is to look after your own mental health.

If you think you or someone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, you can seek help – please go to beyondblue’s website for new and expectant parents www.justspeakup.com.au

It’s also important to talk through any concerns you may have with your doctor, maternal health nurse or call the PANDA National Helpline 1300 726 306 (10am till 5pm Monday to Friday) or the beyondblue Support Service 24/7 on 1300 22 4636 or live chat (between 3pm and midnight) via www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support.

IT was wonderful to see the Cumberoona afloat again on Lake Mulwala, thanks to the Knowles brothers who could see the potential of such a great icon. Their gain, our loss. 

My children, grandchildren and myself had many memorable trips on this beautiful vessel and we despaired when it left Albury.

Depicted in the history of this great city of Albury, riverboats were used as one of the means of transport for many goods. 

Now we don't mention anything of historical significance for fear it will disappear. 

Here's hoping the brothers are true to their word and return it to Albury on occasion. I for one will be waiting.