Home and Away's Sophie Dillman tackles 'heartbreaking' storyline

Home and Away fans were overjoyed when fan favourite couple Ziggy Astoni (Sophie Dillman) and Dean Thompson (Patrick O’Connor) welcomed their baby girl on Tuesday night. While the episode was full of joy, producers have previously warned the couple will face their ‘toughest challenge yet’.

A new promo has just revealed that Ziggy has a hard time adjusting to being a new mother. In what looks like a form of postnatal depression, she is shown looking upset as she stares blankly towards her baby’s cot.

According to Health Direct Australia, postnatal depression can cause “low mood” and “feelings of hopelessness”. “Postnatal depression is common, affecting about 1 in 5 Australian mums and 1 in 10 dads in the first year after they have the baby,” the website advises.

In the promo, Ziggy heads to Irene Roberts (Lynne McGranger) for help and guidance, with one particular line breaking viewers’ hearts.

“You really think I can do this?” she asks, before Irene reassures her and pulls her into a tight hug.

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It’s unknown what the future holds for Ziggy and Dean, but it doesn’t look good. Dean is seen frantically searching for his girlfriend while holding his newborn with a worried look on his face.

Fans praised the show on social media for tackling such an important and tough subject.

“So glad they are filming real life situations with real emotional journeys certain people experience,” one person commented.

“It is so heartbreaking to know women go through this if I’m honest,” another added.

“I picked it, I thought Ziggy might be suffering with postnatal depression. I knew the signs,” a third chimed in.

“As a mum who went through PND, it’s heartbreaking and it’s difficult, but if she does have PND, I’m hoping it is done in a really positive way,” another remarked.

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Rumours have been swirling around Sophie and Patrick’s potential exit from the show, and some fans floated the theory that this storyline could provide a reason for their characters to leave Summer Bay.

“I have a feeling that this could be their exit storyline, maybe they go to stay with Ziggy’s parents or Karen,” a fan suggested.

“Love Sophie’s acting, definitely going to miss her when she leaves,” a second wrote.

“I’m assuming she’ll take off to live with her parents and Dean and the grommet will follow,” another guessed.

Mental health support for yourself or a loved one can be found by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14, Mensline on 1300 789 978, or the Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800. Online support is available via Beyond Blue.

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