Adjusting to New Motherhood: Strategies for Embracing Change
Becoming a mother is one of the most transformative experiences in a woman’s life. The joy and love that a new baby brings can be overwhelming, but it’s no secret that new motherhood also presents challenges. It's a phase filled with sleepless nights, emotional rollercoasters, and physical recovery. While there's no one-size-fits-all approach to navigating this journey, there are some strategies and support measures that can make the transition smoother.
1. Prioritize Self-Care
Your newborn needs you, but remember that to be the best version of yourself for your baby, you need to care for your own health and wellbeing.
Physical: Gentle exercise, like walking or postnatal yoga, can help your body recover and boost mood.
Mental: Find moments of relaxation, whether that’s through meditation, deep-breathing exercises, or simply a few minutes with a good book.
Emotional: Give yourself permission to feel a range of emotions, from happiness and pride to anxiety or sadness. Recognizing and accepting these feelings is the first step to managing them.
2. Build a Support System
It truly takes a village. Surrounding yourself with supportive friends and family can be the difference between feeling isolated and feeling upheld.
Reach Out: Whether it’s for a listening ear or a helping hand, don’t hesitate to ask for what you need.
Join Groups: Mom groups, either online or in-person, can be excellent resources to share experiences, ask questions, and find companionship.
Professional Support: If feelings of sadness or anxiety become persistent, consider seeking help from a therapist who specializes in working with postpartum women.
3. Set Realistic Expectations
With the plethora of ‘perfect mom’ images on social media, it’s easy to feel inadequate. But remember, what's displayed online often omits the challenges, mess, and real-life scenarios.
Be Kind to Yourself: Some days will be harder than others. Celebrate the small victories and don’t berate yourself for the tough moments.
Accept Help: Whether it's letting a family member take the baby for a walk or accepting a meal from a neighbor, remember you're not less of a mother for accepting assistance.
4. Establish Routines Early On
While the unpredictability of a newborn's schedule is a given, establishing a flexible routine can provide a semblance of normalcy.
Sleeping: Try to synchronize your sleep with the baby’s. Sleep when the baby sleeps, even if it's just for a short while.
Feeding: Whether you're breastfeeding or formula-feeding, keep track of feeding times and any patterns. Apps or traditional journals can be handy.
Bonding: Set aside quiet time for activities like reading, singing, or skin-to-skin contact.
5. Communicate with Your Partner
If you have a partner, remember that you're in this together.
Share Responsibilities: Divide and conquer tasks, whether it's diaper changing, feeding, or doing household chores.
Emotional Check-ins: Regularly discuss how you’re both feeling. Open dialogue can prevent feelings of resentment or overwhelm.
Time Together: Finding even a few moments for a date night or simple conversation can help maintain your relationship's strength.
6. Educate Yourself but Trust Your Instincts
While there's a wealth of information on parenting, sometimes too much information can be overwhelming.
Choose Reliable Sources: Whether books, blogs, or pediatricians, ensure that the information you're getting is trustworthy.
Trust Yourself: Every child and parent is unique. While advice is great, if something feels right or wrong for your child, trust your gut.
Navigating the journey of new motherhood is a profound experience filled with ups and downs. By equipping yourself with strategies to cope and ensuring you have the support needed, you can make this transformative period one of growth, joy, and deep connection with your child. Remember, it's okay not to have all the answers. Each day brings learning, and every challenge faced is a testament to the resilient spirit of motherhood.
The Maternal Mental Health Program at Passages provides women and families a supportive space to address their specific needs from pregnancy through postpartum. Our clinicians offer education, support, counseling and wellness services to facilitate your family building journey. We work with women and families to identify their unique individual needs to create a comprehensive plan for optimal health and wellness.