Becoming a parent can be a wonderful time of life, but as a time of intense change and adjustment it can also bring strong and unexpected feelings. Looking after yourself during this time includes taking care of your mental, emotional, physical, social, and practical needs.
Know that you are worthy and deserving of care, in every aspect of your life. Trust that all actions you take to look after yourself, no matter how small, can have a positive impact.
Self-care
Regular self-care practice strengthens long-term mental health and emotional wellbeing.
Self-care is a core activity of daily living. Self-care isn’t a luxury, like an occasional or one-off special event. It’s the small, everyday actions we take to look after ourselves and our loved ones, and the things that help us make life feel manageable and enjoyable.
“Self-care for me varies depending on what is happening in life. Sometimes I enjoy organising a meal and movie with friends and other times I need an hour alone to have a long shower.”
Adjusting to change
Strategies to help you manage change
Becoming a parent can be a joyful, rewarding experience - but pregnancy can also be a stressful, complicated and confusing time. You may experience many different emotions as you adjust to the new realities of pregnancy and anticipating becoming a parent. Read about the kinds of changes you can expect and some useful strategies to help you manage change during pregnancy.
Managing sleep
Sleep and your mental health
Sleep supports our mental health and wellbeing. However, getting a good night’s rest can be challenging, particularly during pregnancy. Read tips on how to manage sleep as an expecting parent.
Preparing to be a dad
Tips for new dads
Joy and anticipation of what is to come can be mixed with anxiety about the unknown. Even men who have felt able to cope with most things are suddenly facing a future filled with uncertainties they have not had to deal with before. Read some tips for dads to prepare for your baby's arrival.
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PANDA CHATBOT
Chat to Dot
Meet Dot. They’re here to support you to explore your mental health and wellbeing during pregnancy and as a new parent.
Mental health checklist
How are you going?
Everyone’s experience of pregnancy, birth and parenting is unique and brings different rewards and challenges. Our mental health checklist can help you to see if what you’re experiencing or observing in a loved one could be reason to seek help.