Need to talk? Call 1800 882 436.
It's a free call with a maternal child health nurse. *call charges may apply from your mobile

Is it an emergency? Dial 000
If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately.

beginning of content

Being a parent

Anxiety and parenthood

Postnatal anxiety develops in the first year of parenthood and is common in both parents. Learn to recognise the signs and get the support you need.

Common worries and fears for parents

New parents often worry that they don't know what to do. There are practical ways to deal with the challenges so you can enjoy time with your baby.

Parenting styles

Find out about different styles of parenting and how the parenting style you choose impacts your child's social and emotional wellbeing.

Parenting with a disability

Find out more about the unique challenges that many parents with a disability face, and the importance of asking for help and support when needed.

Positive parenting

Find out more about the Positive Parenting Program (Triple P), which offers valuable parenting advice for parents, guardians and carers.

Postnatal depression

Many women experience the 'baby blues' after pregnancy, but when feelings persist beyond these early days, it may be a sign of depression.

Postpartum psychosis

Postpartum psychosis, a severe mental illness, can happen after you give birth. If you or your partner suspect postpartum psychosis, see a doctor.

Relationship breakdown and divorce

Relationship breakdown and divorce can be hard for both you and your child. Learn how to help your child live between two households.

Sex and relationships when you are a parent

Parenting can put pressure on your relationship. Here are some ideas to help maintain your relationship and sex life after the birth of your child.

Single parenting

Being a single parent can be hard, but there are ways you can ensure your children grow up healthy and well-adjusted, while looking after yourself.

Dad's guide to fatherhood

Find some practical advice of how to help your partner through the pregnancy and for when you bring your baby home.

Controlling your anger as a parent

Anger is a common emotion but can be a problem when it begins to impact a person’s daily life. Discover some strategies to help control your anger.

Co-parenting

Co-parenting is when separated parents share raising their children after a breakup. Learn about parenting plans and how to resolve disagreements.

Parental anxiety in the toddler years

Raising a child aged 1-3 can be challenging. It's normal to feel anxious about your toddler and parenting style but if the anxiety doesn't go away, se...

School readiness and preparing for school

Learn the signs that your child may be ready for school, and read about how to prepare them to start school with skills and confidence.

Call us and speak to a Maternal Child Health Nurse for personal advice and guidance.

Need further advice or guidance from our maternal child health nurses?

1800 882 436

Video call

Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present.

© 2025 Healthdirect Australia Limited

This information is for your general information and use only and is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes.

The information is not a substitute for independent professional advice and should not be used as an alternative to professional health care. If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a healthcare professional.

Except as permitted under the Copyright Act 1968, this publication or any part of it may not be reproduced, altered, adapted, stored and/or distributed in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of Healthdirect Australia.