When you embark on family life, you hope to head down the safe and predictable road – healthy kids and partner, a job with enough income to live comfortably, and good mental health. But sometimes life can catch you unaware with a thunderbolt from the blue.

Jessica Rowe chats with a mum about how her life took a very different turn to the one she had imagined. After a tough pregnancy with her first child, she was put on bed rest for the second half of her next pregnancy with twins. But not long after they were born, her partner was diagnosed with a brain tumour and she had to develop self-care strategies to cope. Life would never be the same.

In this episode of Navigating Parenthood – Imperfect Parents, brought to you by HCF, we learn how to parent in times of unforeseen change, stress and upheaval.

Hosted by Jessica Rowe
Featured expert: Lydia Black from PSYCH2U

For more help with your and your family’s mental health, head to HCF’s mental health support resources.

Need help?
If you need to create your own self-care strategies, read raisingchildren.net.au’s article on looking after yourself.

If you feel depressed or anxious, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. For health concerns, speak to your doctor. HCF doesn't endorse any statements or opinions made during the podcast. This podcast contains general health information and shouldn't be relied on as medical advice.