You should make up a list of telephone numbers of people who can help you in times of stress. This list could include family and friends as well as some of the following health services:
Your general practitioner (GP) who can care for you and baby.
Community Child Health Services. Contact the Child Health Line on +61 7 3862 2333 (or 1800 177 279) for information on services in your area. Child Health can also put you in touch with parenting programs and local community play groups.
Breastfeeding support can be obtained through Child Health Services, the Australian Breastfeeding Association Helpline +61 7 3844 8977 or Queensland Lactation Consultants +61 7 3396 9718.
If you need to access alcohol and drug services for the first time, contact Alcohol & Drug Information Service on +61 7 3837 5989 (1800 177 833 — outside Brisbane free call excluding mobile phones); or Drug-Arm on 1300 656 800.
For parenting women with special needs, contact Spiritus’ AMEND Service (home-visiting, relapse prevention) phone +61 7 3421 2845; or meet with QuIHN Women’s Circle (+61 7 3252 5390).
Medicines Line 1300 888 763 allows you to speak to a pharmacist if you need information about medicines (Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm EST).
If you need support for your mental health, contact your local mental health service. For persons living in the inner southern suburbs of Brisbane, Princess Alexandra Hospital’s Mental Health Service can be contacted on 1300 858 998.
For information on other support services contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.