Parents living with a mental illness

Many parents living with mental illness worry about their parenting ability. However most are great parents when appropriately equipped and supported.

If you have children and experience a mental health issue, you may worry about how your illness might affect them. First, understand you are not alone as more than a million Australian children have a parent with a mental illness.

You might be aware that your child has a higher risk of developing a mental illness themselves. Genetic inheritance and other factors like attitudes and the family environment can affect their development and wellbeing. However, statistically, they have a greater chance of not developing a mental illness.

But your child can lead a happier, healthier life, if the illness is acknowledged and understood, if you seek supports (for your illness, for yourself as a parent and for them) and if you can talk to them about the issues.

Read more here, if you're worried about your child's mental health.

Get information

Check out our online library which contains references to booklets, DVDs, books, articles and links that will help you be the best parent you can. You might also find the following websites helpful.

• Raising Children Network - Information about parenting
• My Child - Child care services
• Parentline – Telephone support
• SANE Australia - Information about mental illness and treatments
• Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia – Factsheets about mental illness
• beyondblue - Information about depression and anxiety
• Dad's Info - Information specifically for dads on this website
• Recovery - SANE Australia's information about getting better