When you welcome your newborn into the world, it is a time of tremendous joy. Caring for a your little one can also be a source of incredible stress and anxiety. You may feel helpless and overwhelmed by the responsibility of parenting. It is important to take care of yourself as well as your child, simplify your life and continue to nurture other relationships. If the stress of parenting becomes overwhelming, don't be afraid to seek professional help and counsel.
Rule Out Depression
It is perfectly normal for new moms to experience anxiety and mood swings -- especially within the first week or two after the baby is born. However, what you think is simply intense stress might actually be postpartum depression. If you have a few of the following symptoms you should seek professional help: intense anxiety, insomnia, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, difficulty caring for the baby, negative feelings towards the baby, thoughts of harming the baby, inability to concentrate, thoughts of suicide, loss of appetite, irritability, loss of interest in pleasurable activities, inability to care for yourself, and lack of energy.
Take Care of Yourself
It may be easier to lounge around the house in pajamas and live on take-out food when you have a newborn, but it won't make you feel any better. Try to eat healthily, drink enough water, cut out caffeine, and sleep whenever the baby is sleeping. When you have recovered from childbirth -- and when your physician says you are ready -- introduce some gentle exercise into your schedule. You'll find that you are calmer and more energetic when you are taking good care of yourself.
Let Go of Non-Essentials
It is alright to let your standards slip a little when you have a new baby who needs all your attention. Make a list of chores that are absolutely essential, and let everything else go temporarily. For instance, throw supper in the Crock-Pot for a quick dinner, but forget the vacuuming. Don't be afraid to ask for help. When friends and family members come to visit, put them to work folding laundry or doing dishes. They'll be happy to help, and it will lessen your stress.
Prioritize Relationships
A new child in the family can place a lot of stress on your marriage and family. New fathers often feel a little helpless when it comes to caring for a newborn. Make a list of things he can help you with -- diaper changes, bedtime or bath time -- and then back off. Let your husband take care of your child in his own way without running interference. Delegating child care will relieve some of your stress and will help him feel more involved as a parent. It is also important to make time for just the two of you. Hire a babysitter and have a date night at least once a month.
