Topic Tuesday // Emotional wellbeing for parents // 15 Nov. 7pm AEDT

[Kurra]

Hi @PANDA
Is there any organisation that provides support for parents of adult children? The need is certainly there but I'm not aware of any specific assistance for this type of parenting.

[PANDA]

Hi @MisguidedDreamr, you are so right, it is hard for others to know what is really happening when you wear that mask of coping. It sounds like you knew you were not well enough to leave but you also were not able to really let the staff know... when you are told you are OK but you feel anything but OK that sense of failure can develop a life of its own.

The sad thing is this gets in the way of accessing the help you need. You are brave and bold @MisguidedDreamr and your daughter is very lucky to call you 'mum'. xx

[Shaz51]

Hello @Kurra

good question that i am wondering about too @PANDA, @Former-Member

[NikNik]

We've had such an interesting and honest conversation so far. We really appreciate those who have shared their experience (some for the first time!). I guarantee that by even asking the question, you are helping many others who are watching this forum who have the same question.

We have about 15 mins left - so if you have questions, please feel free to post them now 🙂

[Former-Member]

Hi @Kurra, thanks so much for your post. 

PANDA supports mums, dads, and the extended family of those who are struggling with perinatal anxiety and depression by providing emotional support on the phone, and guidance on how best to support those in your life with PNDA. 

If you are caring for an adult child and finding that it is affecting your mental health, you can call the Carer Advisory Line on 1800 242 636 and get advice on services and emotional support. 

I hope this answers your question!

[Appleblossom]

Aye Aye @Kurra 

I wished I had some support for my relationship with my daughter.

[Former-Member]

It can be so hard to deal with things alone, @Appleblossom. 

I'm sorry to hear you have had this experience. 

[Shaz51]

Thank you @Former-Member, @PANDA for the information

[NikNik]

Great referral for Carer Advisory Line @Former-Member
Sometimes I think we don't see ourselves, or classify ourselves as 'carers' we are just mums or dads - so it's important to recognise that organisations that refer to 'carers' are relevant for all of us!

[PANDA]

There certainly does need to be more awarenss @MisguidedDreamr. Pregnancy can be a vulnerable time for both women and men and open conversations about emotional and mental health (in addition to physical health) can make a world of difference.

Forums like this are awesome in providing a space for real conversations. Thanks to everyone for sharing tonight. It has been a wonderful experience.