Some parents may need extra support in their parenting at different times.
Some common reasons people look for extra support include:
- breastfeeding
- caring for a child who has special needs or a long-term illness
- a death in the family
- relationship problems
- behaviour issues
Talk to your GP - they can help you find the best support for you and your family.
Ask a breastfeeding expert can help answer questions you may have.
Your public health nurse (PHN) can also offer you support. Public health nurses can give you reliable information and advice about child and family health. They can also refer you to other sources of support in your local area, such as the Child and Family Agency.
Watch a video on where to get extra support as a parent - Youtube
The Child and Family Agency
The Child and Family Agency (also known as Tusla) can put you in touch with a social worker if your family needs additional support.
Social workers and family support workers work closely with parents and children to find out what your family’s needs are, and to develop a plan to meet those needs.
The agency can also offer you support through:
- parenting courses and family support services
- Meitheal – a community-based support service for families
- child and family support networks
- marriage counselling
- child counselling
- bereavement counselling
- family mediation - this is a free and confidential service that helps parents who have decided to separate or divorce.
More tips on parenting - parenting24seven.ie.
Perinatal mental health services
Perinatal mental health services are available in all maternity units and hospitals.
They provide specialist support to women experiencing mental health problems during pregnancy, including up to the first year of their baby's life.
Your GP, midwife, doctor or psychiatrist can refer you to the service.
More support information
Women's Aid
Women's Aid can help with women’s refuge centres.
Barnardos
Barnardos help children and families who need extra support at times.
Citizens Information
Your local Citizens Information centre can give you information on benefits and entitlements.
MABS
The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) can help with financial problems and debt.