GPs Encouraged to Support Children Affected by Parental Mental Health
28 Oct 2026
Parents may experience mental health issues due to past trauma, existing conditions or the pressures of raising children. These challenges can affect children’s wellbeing and may have lasting effects on their mental health.
As trusted healthcare professionals, GPs can play an important role in recognising when a child may be affected by a parent’s mental health. They can offer information suited to the child’s age, assess their needs and help families access relevant services.
Several resources are available to help GPs and other health professionals support children and families, including:
- Emerging Minds GP resources
- Emerging Minds general resources
- Mental health training and tools for health professionals
- NSW Intellectual Disability and Mental Health Training Portal
- Resources for disability professionals
- Resources for professionals
The information was published in Practice Pulse on 28 October 2026 for healthcare professionals in South Western Sydney.
GPs Encouraged to Support Children Affected by Parental Mental Health
Source: South Western Sydney Primary Health Network (SWS PHN).