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. However, there are practical ways to deal with the challenges so you can enjoy your baby more...

Parenting styles

Find out how your parenting style impacts your child's self esteem and emotional wellbeing.

Parenting with a disability

Parents with a disability face the same issues as other parents but may require more support. Learn about the unique challenges and importance of help...

Positive parenting

The Triple P – Positive Parenting Program offers valuable parenting advice for mums, dads, step-parents, guardians and carers to nuture and care for t...

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 is a serious mental illness that can develop soon after you give birth. If you or your partner might have postpartum psychosis, s...

Relationship breakdown and divorce

A relationship breakdown and divorce can be a distressing time for everyone involved. Here are some coping strategies to help you and your child throu...

Sex and relationships when you are a parent

Parenting can put a lot of pressure on your relationship. Here is advice to help you maintain your relationship and sex life after the birth of your c...

Single parenting

Happy single-parent families with healthy, well-adjusted children do exist. Research suggests that when parents, single or partnered, spend time with ...

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 normal human emotion, but if you are a parent it's important to control your anger. Here are some simple strategies.

Co-parenting

Co-parenting is when former partners share in raising their children after a divorce or breakup. Learn what the law says and how to resolve disputes.

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 - a guide for parents

Find out why personal and social skills are expected before your child starts school and make an informed decision about your child's 'school readines...

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.

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.