If you have recently brought your baby home from the hospital and you are facing this big change on your own, the following tips will help you cope a little better.
1. Understand your feelings
Make sure you are open and honest about your feelings. It’s ok to feel anger, sadness, fear, guilt or even regret and you should never feel like you need to hide them from anyone. On the other hand you can feel excited, optimistic and even liberated that you’re doing this on your own. It’s not right or wrong to experience either of them.
2. Get support from family and friends
Don’t feel obligated to do this on your own, you don’t have anything to prove. Reach out for support from family and friends and you will no doubt be surprised by how many people want to help you out.
3. Know your rights and entitlements
If your ex wants to be involved it is important you seek legal advice and get things written down on paper. This will help relieve any unnecessary stress. If your ex is not involved you may be entitled to financial aid which will help with the cost of raising your child. Your citizen information will be able to guide you in the right direction.
4. Go slow
Don’t feel like you have to accomplish more just because you are doing this on your own or feel like you have something to prove. You are going to be exhausted, emotional and probably very sore, so take it slow. Get outside as much as possible and go for walks or to the park. Being cooped all day won’t help your mood.
5. Take proper care of yourself
While postnatal depression can affect all kinds of women, if you are feeling down or overwhelmed you will be more susceptible to it. Make sure you take proper care of yourself so shower, eat healthy and stay in touch with friends. These three simple things will help you in so many more ways than you might think.
