The reality is that asking for support is not a sign of weakness – it is one of the strongest things a parent can do.

Research consistently shows that parents with strong social support are more likely to experience positive mental health, greater confidence in parenting, and reduced stress during the postnatal period. Conversely, social isolation and a lack of practical support are recognised risk factors for postnatal anxiety and depression.

What Does Resilience Really Mean?

Resilience isn’t about handling everything without help.

It means adapting to challenges, recognising when things feel overwhelming, and knowing how to access the support you need. Building resilience often comes from having trusted people around you – not from trying to manage every challenge alone.

Many parents worry they’re “not coping” if they ask for help. In reality, every family needs support at different times, whether it’s with practical tasks, emotional reassurance, or simply having someone to talk to.

When Should You Reach Out?

Every parent’s experience is different, but it may be time to seek extra support if you find yourself:

• feeling overwhelmed most days
• struggling to rest, even when your baby is asleep
• feeling isolated or lonely
• worrying constantly that you’re “getting it wrong”
• finding everyday tasks increasingly difficult
• feeling anxious, low, or unable to enjoy things you usually would.

You don’t have to wait until you’re in crisis. Seeking support early can often prevent small challenges from becoming much bigger ones.

Start Close to Home

Many parents already have a support network – they just haven’t thought about asking.

Consider reaching out to:

• your partner or co – parent
• parents, grandparents or other family members
• trusted friends or neighbours
• another parent you’ve met through antenatal classes or your local community.

Sometimes asking someone to prepare a meal, hold the baby while you shower, or accompany you to an appointment can make an enormous difference.

Community Support is There for You

If family or friends aren’t nearby – or if you simply need extra help – there are many services available.

In Canberra, families can access support through services such as:

• Maternal and Child Health (MACH) nurses
• your GP
• local playgroups and parent groups
• community health services
• multicultural family support services
• PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia)
• the Raising Children Network, Australia’s trusted online parenting resource.

For families eligible for Community Options’ Women and Newborn Community Support Program (WNCSP), additional support may also be available, including practical in – home assistance, transport to medical appointments, connections with local services, and case management to help navigate available supports.

Looking After Yourself Helps Your Baby Too

Parents often place themselves last, but caring for yourself is an important part of caring for your baby.

Something as simple as taking a short walk, accepting help with household tasks, attending a local parents’ group, or having a conversation with another adult can improve wellbeing and help build confidence over time.

There is no perfect parent. Every family has challenges, and every family needs support in different ways.

The strongest families aren’t the ones who never ask for help – they’re the ones who know they don’t have to face the journey alone.

If you or someone you know needs extra support after welcoming a new baby, speak with your GP, Maternal and Child Health Nurse, or healthcare provider about the services available in your local area.