Self-Care…yes, you need it.
Self-care is the time and activities a parents spends to “re-charge.” It’s no secret that newborn babies can be time-consuming and at times overwhelming, so being self-aware of your own needs and feelings can be important when it comes to responding to that baby. An increased sense of pressure to be the perfect parent without taking time to reflect on one’s own well-being could result in things like emotional and physical fatigue, as well as burnout (See this Cleveland Clinic article for more details)
Burnout can manifest in a number of ways, including
Sadness
Depression
Sleeping too little or too much
Changes in diet and appetite
Lacking a sense of happiness during activities
If you are currently experiencing any of these characteristics, it is time to invest in yourself and your well-being. No, this doesn’t need to be an additional line on your to-do list. Even taking thirty seconds to simply breathe deeply and stretch your body or muscles may improve your overall well-being. Here are some tips for practicing self-care:
Self-care does not need to be overly expensive or time-consuming. Something as simple as a hot shower or calling a friend will work wonders on your mental health.
Move your body - and no, you don’t have to go to the gym. There are plenty of at-home yoga (15 min or less sometimes) classes for free on YouTube. Even a quick walk down the road or street may be enough to clear your mind!
Deep breathing is a great way to center yourself when feeling stressed. In through the nose, out through the mouth. And repeat.
Don’t be afraid to take help if it’s offered. If your sister-in-law offers to take the baby for a few hours, take advantage. You are not a bad parent for getting a little time away for a break.
Finally, consider seeking professional help. There are qualified counselors and therapists in the thumb region that offer in-person and virtual services. Don’t be afraid to reach out.
Here’s another great resource for coping with challenges of a newborn.