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Having a parent with a mental illness is quite common but sometimes you may have questions or worries.
It helps to have supports and information to help you make sense of what is going on.
Sharing information
It’s important to talk about mental health and mental illness. Talking to your mum or dad, or to another support person, can give you a chance to learn more and ask questions. It helps you and your family members understand what is going on for everyone. You can also find information in books and brochures, and websites:
- Information and video clips for teenagers about different types of mental illness
- Need to Know - A guide for young people who have a parent with mental illness for young people aged 11-14 who have a parent with mental illness. Read online or download and print.
- It's about you too - A guide for children (8-10) who have a parent with a mental illness.
Finding Support - You are Not Alone
Many children and young people find it helpful to talk to others who have similar experiences. Group programs give you a chance to meet others, learn more about mental illness and how to deal with stigma (including teasing and bullying). You can also link in with school holiday activities, outings and camps. Check out current Group Programs for Children and Young People
Plan ahead
It is important to remember there is help available for you, and your parent and family. An Action Plan can give you handy tips for knowing what to do and who to call for support.
Some families have a Family Care Plan which helps everyone in the family know what to do if mum or dad is becoming unwell – it might include important contact numbers, support people and a list of your usual activities.
Links for You (Children and Young People)
COPMI website for kids and young people – information and videos for children and young people who have a parent who experiences mental illness
Headspace Information for young people aged 12-25 and need information relating to general mental health, physical health, work & study and alcohol and other drugs
Satellite Foundation - Connecting children, young people and their families where a parent has a mental illness.
Kookaburra Kids – Supporting Kids Living in Families Affected by Mental Illness including camps and activity days.
Reachout.com Self-help information and Reachout Community: a place for 14-25 year olds to chat online, connect and support each other
Kids Helpline Information and support for kids, teens and young adults, parents and schools. If you need to speak to a counsellor, call 1800 55 1800, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Email and webchat also available
What's OK at Home? Support and information for young people regarding family violence and safety at home
Young Carers
Some children and young people may also provide support for their parents and their families - it is important to know how to get help when you need it. Find more Information for young carers and Support for young carers
Services for Young Carers Local service VMCH provide support, information and respite for young carers in the Eastern region including financial support and group programs
Young Carer's Network A website for young carers including support services and events, handy tips and stories by other young carers
Little Dreamers – website and direct support programs that work with Young Carers and their families to enhance their quality of life and overall wellbeing. Includes groups, camps, mentoring and financial support options.
Information for Children and Young People of Parents with a Mental Illness
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Having a parent with a mental illness is quite common but sometimes you may have questions or worries.
It helps to have supports and information to help you make sense of what is going on.
Eastern Health is committed to ensuring the communities we service receive care that is responsive to their cultural and language needs.
Eastern Health acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which its services operate, and pays respect to their Elders past, present and emerging. Eastern Health is committed to achieving equality in health status between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-indigenous Australians.
Eastern Health strives to be an inclusive healthcare service.
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