Being pregnant in prison can feel scary and stress you out. Sometimes you can feel like you won’t be a good mum or that you won’t be there for your baby.
Getting ready to leave prison and have a baby can be really hard. There is lots to think about and it can be a bumpy road.
You may have:
- worries about money and caring for baby
- life troubles, like finding a safe place to live
- relationship troubles
- worries about being a mum and caring for a new baby
Its good for you and baby when you feel strong, safe and connected to your family, community and culture.
You can ring PANDA for a chat before you leave custody and after you go home. You can share anything worrying you.
They will keep your information safe. You don’t have to tell them your name.
Sometimes just talking it out can make you feel strong again. PANDA can also help if you need more support.
We can link you with other services that are culturally safe. They can support you to feel strong in mind, body and spirit.
If you feel bad or stressed out there’s no shame in talking it out. PANDA can help.
“I am isolated from my family because of my mental health. The shame and expectations of me. PANDA helps me to get back to myself, so I can be with my family.”
We know it is a busy time, we know you have a lot on. It is ok if you need to reschedule an appointment, or look after your baby or other children during a call. We will wait or make another time.
After you talk to PANDA remember to take some time to yourself to rest. It can be tiring chatting about big things.
Helpful Information
What happens when I call the PANDA Helpline?
PANDA National Helpline
Find someone to talk to, Monday to Saturday.
1300 726 306
Call 000 for police and ambulance if you or someone else are in immediate danger
Talk with friends or family
Consider talking about how you are feeling with someone you trust. This might be a friend or family member. Once you starting talking you might be surprised at how many others have had similar experiences and the support they can provide you.
Talk with your doctor
Talking with your doctor can be an important step to getting the help you need. They should be able to give you non-judgemental support, assessment, diagnosis, and ongoing care and treatment. They can also refer you to specialists such as a counsellor, psychologist or psychiatrist.
Get help now
If you are having suicidal thoughts or are feeling disorientated it’s important to get help immediately. PANDA is not a crisis service, if you need immediate support call Lifeline 13 11 14 (24/7).
Helpful Information