Expecting and new parents in Australia come from all types of family units, and all cultures. Growing families are increasingly blended due to separation and new relationships, and you may be caring for multiple children, grandparents, and other family members.
When you’re caring for a baby, it can be hard to find time in the day to be part of all family activities and find time for yourself too. Coming up with some self-care ideas for the whole family can be a good idea when you have a new baby.
Self-care
Self-care: Parents and infants
Self-care is not just good for you, it’s also good for your baby. Looking after your physical, mental, emotional and social health needs may help you to feel more supported and less stressed as you become a parent.
The whole family
Caring for the whole family
Coming up with some self-care ideas for the whole family can be a good idea when you are expecting a baby or are a new parent. Read some ideas for connecting with your family and supporting your family's wellbeing.
Managing sleep
Sleep and your mental health
Sleep deprivation can be one of the most challenging parts of being a new parent. Read strategies to manage the juggle of early parenthood and your wellbeing.
Articles for growing families
Stories about growing families
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.
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).