For single and sole parents and carers

Being a single or sole parent or carer

All parents need support at times, but for single or sole parents and carers there are different emotional challenges. You might be caring for your child alone or sharing their care with a co-parent, or a partner that doesn’t live with you. With the right help and support you and your baby can have the best possible start.

Common worries may be:

• looking after your child's physical and emotional needs
• not having someone to support you with parenting
• feeling lonely, left out or isolated
• not having enough time or money to support your child
• extra emotional pressure to look after your child on your own
• stressors from co-parenting or shared parenting
• feeling judged by others.

Your support options

Talking to someone about what help you need and how to get support can be a good first step. It might be your family, friends, an Elder or someone else in your community.

Support can include things like:

• practical and emotional support from friends, family and other parents
• government payments and financial support
• supported accommodation
• parenting support services
• legal support with financial, court and other matters.

You can also talk to your GP, midwife, child health nurse, a trained counsellor or another health professional. Bringing a support person with you can help you explain what you need.

In a crisis or emergency

If you're having thoughts about harming yourself or your child, or you feel unable to cope, call:

• Triple Zero (000)
• 13YARN (13 92 76)
• Lifeline (13 11 14)
• Suicide Call Back (1300 659 467)
• 1300 MH CALL (1300 642 255).

For help with domestic, family and sexual violence call 1800 737 732. You can also talk to someone online, by text message or video call on the 1800RESPECT website.

Services that can support you

Search our directory to connect with perinatal mental health supports and services.