Welcoming a new baby into your life is a joyous occasion, but it’s also common to experience a range of emotions during this time. Many new mothers go through the baby blues, characterised by mood swings, crying spells, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping.
These feelings typically begin within the first few days after childbirth and may last up to two weeks or even months. You need to know how to deal with it when it comes. ITORO OLADOKUN has practical tips on how you can manage and overcome the baby blues during the transition periods to being a great mum.
Know what to expect
Being informed about the baby blues can alleviate concerns and worries. You must know that almost all new mothers have baby blues. This is because motherhood is like a blank canva. Totally empty. Only you know how you’ll feel it up with all the tips, tricks, lessons and hometraining you must have got from parents or guidance. So if you haven’t been asking questions and making your research in this area, now is the great time to do so.
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Rest and sleep
African parents will tell you to sleep when your baby is asleep. It was when I experienced baby blues as new mum that I eventually understood the real meaning of what they meant. Sleep deprivation can intensify feelings of sadness and irritability. And often times, caring for a newborn often disrupts regular sleep patterns, so you should try to rest when your baby sleeps.
Limiting caffeine intake and reducing screen time before bed can also promote better sleep quality. (That’s if the cute bunny by your side would be kind enough to allow that).
Seek help from loved ones
Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your partner, family, or friends. No new mum can outrightly do it all on her own. Back in the days, when older parents were raising kids, child care and upbringing was a whole community’s role and responsibility. But now, because of the times we are in, where no one can be fully trusted not to harm your child, you can only seek help from people you know have your best interest at heart—loved ones.
They can help with meals preparation, household chores, or watching the baby while you rest. support from others can alleviate stress and provide you with much-needed breaks.
Connect with other new mums
Sharing your feelings with others who are going through similar experiences can be comforting. Consider joining support groups or online communities where you can discuss your emotions openly and receive encouragement. I know of a Once a Mum Always a Mum on Facebook. New mums on this platform discuss how they can navigate life as a mum, wife, daughters and everything in between.
Set realistic expectations
Adjusting to motherhood takes time. Avoid comparing yourself to idealised portrayals of motherhood on social media. Recognise that it’s normal to have both good and challenging days, and give yourself grace as you adapt to your new role. Set rules that can work for you as an individual and not anything conventional.
If waking up at 4am works for you, fine! But if you prefer the best time you can wake 5:30 or even 7am and still be able to get everything done before heading out, then let it be your rule. Don’t follow unrealistic expectations that you can’t meet up with.
Engage in self-care activities
Taking time for yourself is very essential. Engage in activities that you enjoy, such as reading, taking a walk, or practicing relaxation techniques. Even short periods dedicated to self-care can significantly improve your mood. Don’t get too swamped in child care that you totally forget about you. You can only take proper care of your cutre bunny when you are healthy yourself.
Maintain a balanced diet and exercise
Proper nutrition and physical activity can positively impact your emotional well-being. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Incorporate gentle exercises, like Kegel or postpartum yoga, as your body heals.
Communicate openly with your healthcare provider
If your feelings of sadness persist beyond two weeks or intensify, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider. They can assess whether you might be experiencing postpartum depression, which requires professional support and treatment. Don’t keep quiet about how you feel. It’s totally normal to feel that way as a first-time mum.
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Give yourself some grace
Transitioning into motherhood is a significant life change. Allow yourself time to adjust without undue pressure. Celebrate small victories and acknowledge that it’s okay to seek help when needed. If you don’t know how to go about a particular thing, call up older parents and seek advice.
Remember, experiencing the baby blues is a common and temporary phase. Consider these tips and if it works for you, share with other new mums to learn and share your comments with us. You’ve got this!
