Knowledge and Confidence in Psychotropic Prescribing, Utilisation of Guidelines and Resources in Managing Perinatal Mental Health in General Practice: An Australian Cross‐Sectional Survey

GPs have considerable knowledge and confidence and follow best practice recommendations in prescribing common psychotropic medications. The more complex the mental health requirements, the reduced level of confidence and need for greater specialist support. Differences in rural practice locations were observed and could be better served with streamlined support and referral pathways to specialist perinatal mental health advice. Clinical pharmacological practice guidelines were used; however, lack of awareness and usefulness of national guidelines on perinatal mental health could be improved by more specific guidance targeted to a GP population.