Parent and carer wellbeing
As a parent, it is often hard to juggle the demands that life throws at you.
Understanding and navigating your own mental health as a parent will help set you and your family up for success; it will help you be in a better place and help your child grow and develop in their surrounding environment.
Parents or carers experiencing mental ill health
With 42.9% of people aged 16-85 experiencing a mental health condition at some stage in their life, it is fair to say, parents are not immune to mental ill health. Up to 1 in 4 children in Australia are being raised by a parent or parents with a mental health condition.
When you have children, it is normal to face challenges and grow alongside them as a family. Having a mental health condition makes some of these challenges more difficult.
Tips for living with a mental health condition
- Be open with your child about how you’re feeling or your mental health condition. This can be a good way to help your family understand what you’re going through.
- Stay connected as much as you can with your child. Your child can often bring out the best in you and have a refreshing outlook on a situation. Don’t underestimate their potential to contribute and connect.
- Don’t be too proud to ask for help when you need it. It takes a village to raise a child so lean on those you can.
- Seek professional help by starting with your doctor (GP). If you don’t have a GP, search for one in your area and set up a consultation.