Mama may become overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life with a newborn. The body's and mind's resources may not be enough to cope [1].
Is everyone at risk of burnout?
Some mothers are more prone to burnout than others. Typically, these are women who have high expectations of themselves and are prone to perfectionism and self-criticism [2].
How can I help myself?
First and foremost, look after your physical health by giving yourself enough time to sleep and rest. Put your needs first. This entails asking for and accepting assistance. Let those around you know what you need. By looking after yourself, you will be able to provide better care for your baby.
Ask your partner and visiting relatives to take care of the baby: have someone else soothe them, change their diapers, and put him down for naps. Studies show that contact with dad and relatives benefits the baby's physical and mental health [3].
If your partner is not used to offering help, it doesn’t mean they don’t care. Men are often afraid of making mistakes or disrupting your plans. This means you'll need to ask for help rather than expecting your partner to be a mindreader. Share the load and let your partner know what you need help with.
Discuss how you're feeling with your partner, family, and friends. It is critical to find a support group where you can talk calmly about your difficulties, feelings, and concerns. [4] The baby blues usually pass within 2 weeks of birth; if low mood, anxiety, or irritability continues, gets worse, or you're struggling to cope, talk to your doctor or midwife, as it can be a sign of postpartum depression. If you have thoughts of suicide or of harming yourself or your baby, get help right away: contact your doctor urgently, call your local emergency number, or go to the nearest emergency room.
Finally, praise yourself for all of your achievements during the day. Make a list of what went well, even if just in your mind, so you take into account how well you are actually doing. Too often, we only remember where we fell short [5].
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