The family unit is the cornerstone of a healthy society. Whether it is a “traditional” family or the less customary families that are a product of our modern society, a strong family unit has the best chance of producing positive outcomes for all the family members.
Many of the problems that we see in society today result in the breakdown of the family unit, and often one issue will manifest its outcomes in many others.
Family Violence or drug abuse, for example, can lead to injury, homelessness, social isolation, disruption at school and poor academic performance. Clearly if we can address some of these issues early we can avoid the consequences arising from them.
The Boroondara Family Network
Today, many young mothers today struggle with the task of raising young children.
First time mothers are often older these days, and not emotionally prepared for devoting 100% of their time to a small but demanding individual. Some mothers have the challenge of multiple births, or have many very young children. Some mothers are without partners and so have limited financial and physical help. Some mothers are new to Australia and have no understanding of our culture and have no network,so don’t know how to access help If immediate family, or sympathetic friends, are not available, this can be extraordinarily stressful. An inability to cope also attaches enormous guilt to the mother as she often feels herself judged by her peers. The outcomes can be very severe on both the mother and baby.
Mothers can turn their frustration onto their children resulting in neglect or even abuse. These children invariably have a difficult start in life, repeating the cycle in their own lives later on. Troubled Mothers can also abuse themselves either through self-neglect, medicinal abuse or even suicide. Clearly, if we can offer support at an early stage, many undesirable consequences can be avoided. The Boroondara Family Network is a group of more than 40 volunteers who provide support, guidance, and assistance to enable these young mothers to cope with their family situation.
