Managing Stress and Exhaustion with a New Baby

We all know what being tired and stressed feels like, however with a new baby it can feel like you're taking all of that to the next level. Babies are so cute, sweet and amazing, but utterly exhausting at the same time. Exhaustion mixed with new baby care and trying to attend to life's normal activities is the perfect recipe for stress. 

Stress is an inevitable part of life, but can become chronic when paired with exhaustion. It is important to be prepared for this and know the steps to take when this stress comes. 

Here are a few steps that I took during Brayden's first six months and that I think will help you out: 

Redefine Your Priorities

As hard as we may try, it is just impossible to do it all. That is why it is important to establish your priorities and forget about the rest. Maybe try to delegate your grocery shopping or household cleaning for the first few months until you get the hang of things. 

Sleep

I know this seems unrealistic, but it is important to try and continue to get as much sleep as possible. When we are sleep deprived our ability to cope with even the smallest things is diminished. The following scenario is pretty inevitable: You have several people at your home wanting to visit the new baby. You want nothing more than to rest, but feel guilty because you want to entertain your guests. I promise you that your guests would love nothing more than to help you out. Go ahead and rest while you have others there to care for your little one. I guarantee you that it will help you feel so much better. 

Move Your Body

When your body is exhausted this is probably the last thing you will want to do, but I promise it will help vastly. It doesn't have to be anything crazy. Just take a few minutes and go on a short walk. It will feel good to get some fresh air and moving your body will increase your feel-good hormones. 

Call A Friend

The first few weeks with a newborn are usually pretty busy, but after you get past that initial hump it can seem lonely. Just remember that this is a monumental time in your life and no one expects you to do it all by yourself. Lean on others. Call a friend. Invite someone over to help you out. Go out to dinner without the baby. Just remember to take care of yourself. 

Letting Go of Control

Bad days are inevitable. Try your best to forgive yourself and go with the flow. It does not mean you are bad parent. Just know that this bad feeling will not last for forever. 

As with all I mentioned above please be sure to consult your doctor/midwife, and if your feelings/stress start to become debilitating reach out to someone for help. 

You got this. 

Sincerely,

Kate