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Helping your partner

The stress, uncertainty and practical demands of caring for a seriously ill child can sometimes place pressure on relationships.

People often cope with difficult situations in different ways, which can sometimes lead to misunderstandings between partners. This resource explores some of the common challenges couples may face, including feelings of anger, unmet expectations and changes in intimacy.

It encourages open communication, understanding each other’s experiences, and recognising that both partners may need support during this time.

“By recognising and overcoming common relationship issues,
couples can work towards improving their support for each other.”

In these situations, it is important to seek support when needed. Families may find it helpful to speak with the palliative care team or the primary medical team about available support services, such as counselling or family support.


Click here to download your digital copy.

The factsheet is also available in Arabic, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese and Traditional Chinese.

ساعد شريك حياتك - Helping your partner Fact Sheet - Arabic Giúp đỡ Người Phối ngẫu Helping your partner Fact Sheet - Vietnamese 幫助 您的伴侶 Helping your partner Fact Sheet - Traditional Chinese 帮助 您的伴侣 Helping your partner Fact Sheet - Simplified Chinese

For further information and support:

Relationships Australia

Relationships Australia provides of relationship support services for individuals, families and communities.
relationships.org.au • 1300 364 277

The Compassionate Friends

The Compassionate Friends is a world-wide self-help group for parents that have lost a child of any age and through any cause. They offer support and understanding.
https://tcfa.org.au/

Griefline

Griefline provides a dedicated grief helpline service providing counselling support services free of charge
griefline.org.au • 1300 845 745, 12pm – 3am

Lifeline

Lifeline provides access to a 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention for anyone experiencing a personal crisis
lifeline.org.au • 13 11 14