The overwhelm that comes with being a new mum is often overshadowed by the joy you feel. Sometimes, however, we unwittingly board the emotional rollercoaster of ups and downs that comes with the territory of being a new mum.
Here are 10 quick and easy tips you can digest (and action) in no time at all.
- Sleep: Don’t stress if you’re not sleeping when baby sleeps – but make sure you are sleeping! Even if your baby is a great sleeper, you’re likely to need some extra zzz’s. Don’t lose out on precious rest, it’s not worth it.
- Take care of yourself: Yes, I know – you’ve just had a baby. But a quick jump in the shower won’t hurt, in fact it may actually make you feel huge amounts better. If you can’t bring yourself to it quite yet, that’s ok too, but try and do something to show yourself some love, however that looks.
- Easy mealtime: It’s not hard to forget about feeding yourself in between baby care. While those pot noodles are ok for a couple of days, long term they will make you feel crummy. Try some fruit or veg (preferably ones you can eat with minimal prep) or a sandwich. Whatever it is, remember you need nutrients too!
- Ask for help: This one’s important. It’s so normal to struggle, in fact, the majority of us do. Reach out for someone and make it known, don’t suffer alone. Your midwife team, your health visitor, your GP, friends, family. Even hotlines who will just listen to you. Contact someone.
- Don’t try to do it all: Enjoy your tiny one while s/he is tiny. Don’t worry about things you haven’t done, or people you haven’t seen. You deserve to sit on the sofa all day and watch reality TV while your baby sleeps on you.
- Don’t be sad that time is passing: It’s easy to worry when people say ‘they’re not this small for long!’ While it’s true, you will enjoy every stage of your baby’s development, and there are ALWAYS exciting things ahead.
- You and baby are unique: Don’t worry about milestones. Every baby and mum is different. People will tell you ‘by X months they’ll be doing X’ but take it all with a pinch of salt.
- Instincts will grow with time: You will develop a sense of what your baby needs – but it won’t happen immediately. Don’t beat yourself up for not realising your baby was crying because of a dirty nappy. Things will get easier to sense!
- You’re doing your best: Sometimes it can feel bleak and grey as your baby screams for what feels like hours (or maybe even days), and you might end up blaming yourself. Know you are doing your best, and if you’re struggling or worried, reach out to your health visitor or GP.
- This too shall pass: Remember that everything will eventually pass.
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