Gogglebox star Isabelle Silbery opens up about depression battle during pregnancy

Isabelle Silbery, who is due to give birth this week, has revealed her struggles with pre-natal depression, a condition she didn’t even realise existed.

Gogglebox star Isabelle Silbery says she’s speaking out about pre-natal depression to raise awareness. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

Isabelle Silbery has opened up about her battle with pre-natal depression and how she’s determined to raise the next generation of strong women.

The Gogglebox Australia star is due to give birth this week to her second child, a daughter, with the support of husband Alex Richards.

She has a nine-year-old son from a previous marriage that ended with a difficult separation.

“It’s amazing when you start a conversation openly what then comes your way,” Silbery said.

“So many women haven’t had the rainbows and butterflies pregnancies and it’s totally OK to not. And to kind of put your hand up when things aren’t feeling OK. I didn’t even know that pre-natal depression existed. We talk more openly about post-natal depression but pre-natal is also a thing. Getting the right therapy and medication, now I feel so different about it. I’m ready and positive and I’m in the best head space I can be for this phase.”

Gogglebox star Isabelle Silbery is set to welcome her second child with husband Alex. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

Silbery has suffered a few miscarriages which she said added to her anxiety and depression.

“I should be over the moon but I did not feel like that, (and you ask) what’s wrong with me,” she said.

“My oldest is nine and it’s been so long between drinks, it takes so long to get your body back and your mind back and your lifestyle is so good now. It was just allowing myself to process that it will be OK.”

Silbery stars on Gogglebox with mum Kerry and grandmother Emmie, who is now in a home with dementia.

She says it’s special to be able to continue the line of women in her family.

“Because it’s a girl it’s so beautiful,” Silbery said.

“I feel so honoured to bring in the next generation of our line of women. Emmie has been such a force and the matriarch of our family and she’s deteriorating with dementia. It’s been difficult and sad but at the same time this baby is bringing us joy and hope and looking into the future.

Ms Silbery said she didn’t even realise pre-natal depression existed. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

“She always says when I was born I gave her a new lease on life. To have her hold my daughter will just be the most special thing. Especially coming into Christmas, it’s a beautiful time of year.”

Silbery said she wants to bring her daughter into a world that is safe and equal.

“I’ve been thinking a lot about this pregnancy and what world I want her to be brought into and my responsibility in that,” she said.

“Since having a boy I’ve worked a lot with preventative programs which try to stop the cycle of domestic violence and more respect through education. I’m doing my best to contribute in any way I can.

“It was really difficult in my first marriage I didn’t have a great relationship, post having my son was when it all fell apart. This is a new experience, a new partner who is amazing and supportive, our families are all there to support me. It’s exciting.”