Fact sheet · Scary thoughts
Starting the conversation
Many parents have scary, unwanted thoughts during pregnancy or after birth. Talking about them can feel hard, but you don’t need perfect words or every detail. Use this sheet to prepare, and bring it to your appointment if that helps.
Type straight into the boxes, then print or save as a PDF, or print it blank and use a pen.
1. Ways to start
Tick one or two that feel right. Saying just one sentence is enough to begin.
2. Questions to ask
Tick the ones you want answered. It’s fine to read them straight off the page.
3. How this is affecting my day
Write about the impact, not the thoughts themselves. Leave anything blank you’d rather say in person.
4. My next step
Remember: health professionals are trained to understand intrusive thoughts, and you can share as much or as little as you like. If your thoughts ever come with intent or a plan, say so clearly.
Get help now if you have:
thoughts of harm that feel right or that you might act on · thoughts of suicide · confusion, or seeing or hearing things others don’t · no sleep even when you have the chance. Call 000 or go to your nearest emergency department. Lifeline 13 11 14 · PANDA 1300 726 306.