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Self-care

‘I Don’t Like Being a Mum’: Embracing the Challenges of Motherhood

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Motherhood is a journey filled with highs and lows, a rollercoaster of emotions, and an undeniable love that knows no bounds. However, let’s be honest; not every day is a breeze, and it’s okay to admit that some days you don’t like being a mum.

As a mother, you are juggling multiple roles, responsibilities, and expectations, all while trying to maintain your sanity and well-being. The pressure to be a good mom, the internal struggle to balance everything, and the mental toll it takes can leave you feeling overwhelmed and questioning yourself. Yet, amidst the challenges, remember that you are not alone, and every mother, at some point, faces similar feelings.

Accept That Parenting Is Challenging

Being a mum is not easy. Balancing family members, your role as a good mum, and your mental health can be overwhelming. This is especially challenging if you are a stay-at-home mum. But take a deep breath and repeat this affirmation: “I am doing my best, and that’s enough.”

Accepting that motherhood comes with its challenges doesn’t make you a horrible mum; it makes you human. Not every moment will be hard, so take the time to notice and embrace mindfully at least five positive moments each day. It could be your child’s giggle, a loving gesture, or a moment of pure joy.

Moreover, seeking help and support doesn’t mean you are failing as a mother. Reach out to family, friends, or support groups when you feel overwhelmed. Having someone to talk to or share your experiences with can make a world of difference. Nurture your mental health and seek assistance when needed.

Incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine to stay grounded. Start with a few minutes of mindful breathing or meditation each morning. Throughout the day, take mindful breaks by focusing on your breath or practicing gratitude. Embrace the present moment and let go of worries about the past or future.

Become Mindfully Present in Motherhood

With endless responsibilities as a mother, it’s easy to be physically present but mentally elsewhere. Mindfulness can change that. When you engage in motherly duties, be fully present in the moment. Engage your senses, listen attentively, and cherish those fleeting moments.

Set aside dedicated time for mindful bonding with your kids. Whether it’s reading a story together, going for a nature walk, or enjoying playtime, being mindfully present during these moments can create lasting memories and deepen your connection with your children.

Practice mindful breathing to calm your mind and body when overwhelmed or emotionally triggered. Take a few deep breaths, focus on your breath, and let go of tension or stress. By grounding yourself in the present moment, you can respond to challenges with patience and composure.

Another mindful practice to consider is journaling. Write down your thoughts and feelings, allowing yourself to process emotions in a non-judgmental way. Journaling can be a therapeutic outlet for expressing your innermost thoughts and gaining clarity as a mother.

Understand Your Expectations

Before becoming a mother, you may have had certain expectations about motherhood. It’s essential to examine those expectations and ask yourself if they were realistic given your knowledge at the time.

If your expectations don’t match reality, it’s okay to acknowledge that and let go of guilt or disappointment. Motherhood is a journey of growth, and it’s okay to adapt and adjust. Be gentle with yourself and remember that you’re doing your best.

To manage feelings of regret or resentment, consider seeking professional support, such as talking to a therapist or counselor. They can provide a safe space to explore your emotions and help you navigate the complexities of motherhood.

A Mindful Journey to Motherhood

In the midst of the daily challenges of motherhood, mindfulness can be your anchor, helping you embrace emotions and experiences. At Pareful, we understand the struggles, the ups and downs, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Mindfulness is not about being perfect; it’s about being kind to yourself and finding peace in the present moment. As you navigate the journey of motherhood, remember that you’re not alone, and there is a mindful path to enjoying motherhood even on tough days.

So, take a moment for yourself, breathe, and explore how mindfulness can help you cherish the joys of motherhood while navigating its challenges. Embrace motherhood mindfully, and let Pareful be your ally on this incredible journey.

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Pareful - Breaking the Silence: Understanding the Hidden Effects of Parental Mental Health

Breaking the Silence: Understanding the Hidden Effects of Parental Mental Health

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In our fast-paced society, it’s easy to overlook the impact that parental mental health can have on the entire family. While we often focus on the visible signs of mental illness, the hidden effects can be equally profound. Breaking the silence and shedding light on this topic is crucial in order to provide support and understanding to families facing these challenges. In this article, we will explore the often-overlooked consequences of parental mental health on children, partners, and the overall family dynamic. From the emotional toll it takes on children to the strain it puts on relationships, we’ll delve into the complexities of this issue and offer practical strategies for coping and healing. By increasing awareness and breaking the stigma surrounding parental mental health, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive society for all. So, let’s dive in and uncover the hidden effects of parental mental health that need our attention and understanding.

The Impact of Parental Mental Health on Children

Parental mental health has a profound impact on children, shaping their emotional well-being and overall development. Growing up in a household where a parent is struggling with mental health issues can be incredibly challenging for children. They may witness the emotional turmoil, erratic behavior, and instability that often accompany these conditions. As a result, children may experience feelings of fear, confusion, and even guilt, blaming themselves for their parent’s struggles. The constant exposure to stress and tension can disrupt their sense of security and stability, leading to emotional and behavioral difficulties.

Moreover, children of parents with mental health issues may also be at a higher risk of developing mental health problems themselves. Research has shown that genetics and environmental factors play a role in the transmission of mental health conditions, and growing up in a household with a parent experiencing mental illness can increase the likelihood of developing similar issues. It is therefore crucial to address parental mental health concerns not only for the well-being of the parent but also for the long-term mental health outcomes of their children.

Understanding the Hidden Effects of Parental Mental Health

While the impact of parental mental health on children is well-documented, there are also hidden effects that extend beyond the immediate family unit. For example, when a parent is struggling with mental health issues, it can strain the relationship with their partner or spouse. The non-affected partner may find themselves taking on additional responsibilities, both in terms of household duties and caring for the children. This imbalance can lead to feelings of resentment, frustration, and even burnout, as the burden of maintaining the family falls heavily on their shoulders.

Additionally, parental mental health can affect the extended family and the wider social network. Family members may feel helpless or unsure of how to support the parent and children, leading to strained relationships and a sense of isolation. Friends and acquaintances may also struggle to understand the challenges faced by the family, further contributing to the sense of stigma and shame surrounding mental health issues. By recognizing and acknowledging these hidden effects, we can begin to address them and provide the necessary support to families experiencing parental mental health challenges.

Common Mental Health Conditions in Parents

Parental mental health issues can manifest in various forms, with some conditions being more prevalent than others. Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental health conditions experienced by parents. Depression can lead to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of motivation, making it difficult for parents to engage with their children and meet their emotional needs. Anxiety, on the other hand, often manifests as excessive worry and fear, which can impact a parent’s ability to provide a secure and nurturing environment for their children.

Other mental health conditions that may affect parents include bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, and substance abuse disorders. Bipolar disorder can result in extreme mood swings and erratic behavior, making it challenging for parents to maintain a stable and consistent presence for their children. Postpartum depression, which affects some new mothers, can interfere with the bonding process and disrupt the early stages of parent-child attachment. Substance abuse disorders can also have a profound impact on parenting abilities, as they can impair judgment, affect emotional stability, and lead to neglect or abuse.

Signs and Symptoms of Parental Mental Health Issues

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of parental mental health issues is crucial for early intervention and support. It’s important to note that the symptoms may vary depending on the specific mental health condition and the individual’s unique circumstances. However, some common signs to look out for include:

  1. Changes in mood and behavior: Parents experiencing mental health issues may exhibit noticeable changes in their mood, such as increased irritability, anger, or sadness. They may also withdraw from social activities, lose interest in previously enjoyed hobbies, or display changes in sleep patterns and appetite.
  2. Difficulty functioning: Mental health issues can impact a parent’s ability to carry out daily tasks and responsibilities. They may struggle to maintain their personal hygiene, keep up with household chores, or fulfill their parental duties effectively.
  3. Neglecting self-care: Parents experiencing mental health challenges may neglect their own self-care, putting their physical health and well-being at risk. They may have difficulty attending medical appointments, taking prescribed medications, or engaging in activities that promote self-care and stress reduction.
  4. Affecting parent-child interactions: Mental health issues can interfere with the parent-child relationship, affecting the quality of interactions and the child’s emotional well-being. Parents may have difficulty engaging with their children, expressing affection, or responding to their emotional needs.
  5. Increased substance use: Some parents may turn to substance abuse as a way to cope with their mental health challenges. This can further exacerbate the negative effects on their parenting abilities and overall family dynamics.

If you notice any of these signs or suspect that a parent may be struggling with their mental health, it’s important to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Encouraging open and non-judgmental communication can create a safe space for the parent to seek help and support.

The Ripple Effect: How Parental Mental Health Affects the Family Dynamic

The impact of parental mental health extends beyond the affected individual. The family dynamic can be significantly altered by the challenges faced by a parent with mental health issues. The strain on the parent-child relationship can lead to increased conflict, tension, and disrupted communication within the family. Children may feel a sense of insecurity and unpredictability, unsure of how their parent’s mental health will affect their daily lives.

Furthermore, the non-affected parent or partner may experience feelings of frustration, helplessness, and resentment. They may feel overwhelmed by the additional responsibilities they have to shoulder, leading to emotional and physical exhaustion. This strain can put a significant strain on the relationship, leading to increased conflict and a breakdown in communication.

The impact of parental mental health on siblings should also be acknowledged. Siblings may feel neglected or overshadowed by the needs of the affected parent, leading to feelings of resentment or a sense of invisibility within the family. It is important to provide support and understanding to all members of the family unit, ensuring that their emotional needs are met and their voices are heard.

Breaking the Silence: Why It’s Important to Talk About Parental Mental Health

Breaking the silence surrounding parental mental health is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to reduce the stigma and shame associated with mental health issues. By openly discussing these challenges, we can create a more compassionate and understanding society that supports individuals and families facing mental health difficulties.

Talking about parental mental health also raises awareness about the hidden effects it can have on children, partners, and the family dynamic. By shedding light on these issues, we can encourage earlier intervention and support, minimizing the long-term impact on families.

Furthermore, open and honest conversations about parental mental health can lead to increased access to resources and support services. Families may feel more empowered to seek help and guidance, knowing that they are not alone in their struggles. This can lead to improved outcomes for both the affected parent and the entire family.

Seeking Help and Support for Parental Mental Health

If you or someone you know is experiencing mental health challenges as a parent, it is important to seek help and support. Remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to assist you in navigating these difficulties.

Start by reaching out to a healthcare professional, such as your family doctor or a mental health specialist. They can provide an accurate diagnosis, develop a treatment plan, and connect you with appropriate support services.

Therapy can be an invaluable resource for both the affected parent and the entire family. Individual therapy can help the parent address their mental health challenges and develop coping strategies, while family therapy can improve communication, rebuild trust, and strengthen the family unit.

Support groups can also be beneficial, as they provide a safe space for parents to connect with others facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences, exchanging advice, and receiving validation can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide a sense of community.

Additionally, it is important to take care of your own well-being as a parent. Engage in self-care activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Prioritize your physical health by eating nutritious meals, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish but necessary for your own well-being and your ability to care for your family.

Conclusion

Parental mental health has far-reaching effects on children, partners, and the overall family dynamic. By understanding and addressing these hidden effects, we can provide support and compassion to families facing these challenges. From the emotional toll it takes on children to the strain it puts on relationships, parental mental health requires our attention and understanding.

Breaking the silence surrounding parental mental health is crucial in order to reduce stigma, raise awareness, and provide access to resources and support. By having open and honest conversations, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive society for all families. Seeking help and support is essential, and there are resources available to assist parents and families in their journey towards healing and well-being.

Let us work together to break the silence, increase awareness, and provide support to families affected by parental mental health issues. By doing so, we can create a brighter future for all.

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The role of parental mental health in creating a healthy & thriving family

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## Introduction to Parental Mental Health

Parental mental health plays a crucial role in creating a healthy and thriving family. As a parent, our mental wellbeing directly impacts our ability to provide a nurturing and supportive environment for our children. When parents are mentally healthy, they are better equipped to handle the challenges of parenting, communicate effectively, and foster positive relationships within the family. In this article, we will explore the impact of parental mental health on the family, signs of parental mental health issues, the importance of seeking help and support, strategies for improving parental mental wellbeing, creating a healthy family environment, the role of communication in supporting parental mental health, resources and support for parents dealing with mental health issues, and the impact of parental mental health on children’s development.

Understanding the Impact of Parental Mental Health on the Family

Parental mental health has a profound effect on the entire family unit. When a parent is struggling with mental health issues, it can lead to increased stress, tension, and conflict within the family. Children may be more likely to experience emotional and behavioural difficulties, as they can sense when their parents are not well. Additionally, parental mental health issues can impact the parent-child relationship, making it challenging for parents to provide the care and support their children need. It is essential to recognise that parental mental health is not just an individual issue but one that affects the entire family system.

Signs of Parental Mental Health Issues

Recognising the signs of parental mental health issues is crucial in addressing them early and seeking appropriate help and support. Some common signs include persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, excessive irritability or anger, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide. It is essential to remember that everyone has ups and downs, but if these symptoms persist and interfere with daily functioning, it may indicate a more significant mental health issue. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is essential to reach out for professional assistance.

The Importance of Seeking Help and Support

Seeking help and support is vital for parents dealing with mental health issues. Many parents may feel hesitant or ashamed to seek help, fearing judgment or stigma. However, it is essential to remember that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. By reaching out to mental health professionals or support groups, parents can access the necessary resources and strategies to manage their mental health and improve their overall wellbeing. Additionally, by seeking help, parents can model healthy coping mechanisms and resilience for their children, teaching them the importance of seeking support when needed.

Strategies for Improving Parental Mental Wellbeing

Improving parental mental wellbeing is a journey that requires conscious effort and self-care. Here are some strategies that can help parents prioritise their mental health:

  1. Self-Care: Make time for activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time in nature. It is essential to prioritise self-care and set boundaries to ensure personal needs are met.
  2. Social Support: Build a network of supportive friends, family members, or fellow parents who can offer a listening ear and understanding. Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide validation and a sense of belonging.
  3. Healthy Lifestyle: Focus on maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and engaging in regular physical activity. These lifestyle factors can significantly impact mental wellbeing.
  4. Stress Management: Practice stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or journaling. Finding healthy ways to cope with stress can enhance overall mental wellness.
  5. Professional Help: If needed, seek professional help from a mental health therapist or counselor. They can provide guidance, support, and evidence-based interventions to address specific mental health concerns.

Remember, improving parental mental wellbeing is an ongoing process, and it’s important to be patient and kind to oneself along the way.

Creating a Healthy and Thriving Family Environment

Creating a healthy and thriving family environment starts with prioritising parental mental wellbeing. When parents are mentally healthy, they are more likely to foster positive relationships, provide emotional support, and model healthy behaviors for their children. Here are some ways to create a healthy family environment:

  1. Open Communication: Encourage open and honest communication within the family. Creating a safe space where everyone can express their thoughts and feelings without judgment fosters trust and strengthens family bonds.
  2. Quality Time: Make time for quality family time regularly. Engage in activities that promote connection and create lasting memories, such as family meals, game nights, or outdoor adventures.
  3. Boundaries and Consistency: Establish clear boundaries and expectations within the family. Consistency in rules and routines helps children feel secure and provides a sense of structure.
  4. Emotional Support: Cultivate an environment that values emotional support and empathy. Encourage family members to validate each other’s feelings and provide comfort during challenging times.
  5. Conflict Resolution: Teach healthy conflict resolution skills to family members. Emphasise the importance of active listening, compromise, and finding win-win solutions.

By implementing these strategies, parents can create a nurturing and supportive family environment that promotes overall wellbeing and resilience.

The Role of Communication in Supporting Parental Mental Health

Effective communication is essential in supporting parental mental health. When parents feel heard and understood, it can alleviate stress and enhance their overall wellbeing. Here are some ways communication can support parental mental health:

  1. Active Listening: Practice active listening when engaging in conversations with your partner or children. Give your full attention, maintain eye contact, and show empathy by validating their feelings.
  2. Expressing Needs: Encourage family members to express their needs and emotions openly. Creating a safe space for open communication allows parents to voice their concerns, seek support, and find solutions together.
  3. Seeking Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from your partner and children about how you can better support their mental wellbeing. Actively involving everyone in the conversation fosters a sense of collaboration and shared responsibility.
  4. Problem-Solving: Use effective communication to address conflicts or challenges within the family. Encourage everyone to share their perspective and work together to find solutions that benefit the entire family.

Remember, communication is a two-way street, and it requires active participation from all family members. By prioritising open and supportive communication, parents can create a nurturing environment that promotes positive mental health for everyone.

Resources and Support for Parents Dealing with Mental Health Issues

If you are a parent dealing with mental health issues, know that you are not alone. There are numerous resources and support available to help you navigate this journey:

  1. Mental Health Professionals: Reach out to mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, who specialise in working with parents and families. They can provide individualised support and interventions tailored to your specific needs.
  2. Support Groups: Join local or online support groups for parents dealing with mental health issues. Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide a sense of understanding, validation, and valuable insights.
  3. Hotlines and Helplines: Take advantage of helplines and hotlines that offer immediate support and guidance. They can provide a listening ear, crisis intervention, and connect you with local resources if needed.
  4. Online Resources: Explore reputable online resources that offer information, tools, and strategies for managing parental mental health. Websites, blogs, and forums dedicated to mental health can provide valuable insights and support.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and reaching out for support is an important step towards improving your mental wellbeing and creating a healthy family dynamic.

The Impact of Parental Mental Health on Children’s Development

Parental mental health has a significant impact on children’s development. When parents are mentally healthy, they can provide the emotional support, stability, and guidance that children need to thrive. On the other hand, when parents are struggling with mental health issues, it can have adverse effects on children’s wellbeing. Some potential impacts include:

  1. Emotional Wellbeing: Children may experience increased stress, anxiety, or depression when their parents are not mentally well. They may struggle with regulating their emotions and developing healthy coping mechanisms.
  2. Behavioral Issues: Children may exhibit behavioral difficulties, such as aggression, withdrawal, or acting out, when their parents are dealing with mental health issues. They may also have difficulty with impulse control and decision-making.
  3. Academic Performance: Parental mental health can impact children’s academic performance. Children may have difficulty concentrating, completing tasks, or staying motivated in school.
  4. Interpersonal Relationships: Children may struggle with forming healthy relationships and developing social skills when their parents are not mentally well. They may have difficulty with trust, communication, and maintaining meaningful connections.

It is crucial to prioritise parental mental wellbeing to mitigate these potential impacts and provide children with a nurturing environment that supports their overall development.

Conclusion: Prioritising Parental Mental Wellbeing for a Healthy Family Dynamic

In conclusion, parental mental health plays a vital role in creating a healthy and thriving family. By understanding the impact of parental mental health on the family, recognising the signs of parental mental health issues, and seeking help and support, parents can prioritise their mental wellbeing. Strategies for improving parental mental wellbeing, creating a healthy family environment, and fostering open communication can further enhance overall family dynamics. Remember to utilise available resources and support, as well as recognise the impact of parental mental health on children’s development. By prioritising parental mental wellbeing, we can create a healthy and thriving family environment that benefits everyone involved.

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How to keep your energy levels up as a parent

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Being a parent is one of the most rewarding and challenging jobs in the world. It can be exhausting, both physically and mentally. With the demands of family life, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and drained of energy. However, with these few tips and tricks, you can find ways to remain energised as a parent.

Create Boundaries
It’s important to set boundaries for yourself and your family. Having clear expectations for how much time and energy you spend on tasks will help prevent burnout. Set limits on how much time you spend on activities such as housework or errands, so that you can focus more on your family and take some downtime for yourself.

Prioritise Self Care
Self-care is essential for any parent—it helps build resilience and maintain balance during difficult times. Take time out of each day to do something just for yourself—whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk, or meditating—and make sure that it’s something that brings joy into your life. This will help you recharge and give you more energy to devote to parenting when needed.

Schedule Breaks
Having regular breaks throughout the day can be an effective way to give yourself a mental break from parenting duties while still managing your time efficiently. Plan mini-breaks throughout the day where you can step away from your tasks for 10-15 minutes at a time; this gives your mind a chance to rest without feeling guilty about taking too much time away from your responsibilities.


Staying energised as a parent isn’t always easy but with these tips in mind, it can become more manageable. Remember that self-care is essential; if you don’t take care of yourself first, then you won’t have enough energy left over for your family. So find ways that work best for you—whether it be setting boundaries, taking breaks throughout the day or scheduling time just for yourself—to ensure that you have enough energy to get through each day with ease.

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Try these self-care tips for new parents

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You’ve probably heard this advice: Take care of yourself if you want to be the best parent for your child. While that advice might sound good in theory, you might wonder how on earth you could care for yourself when your baby is your number one priority right now. Is that even possible? You probably forgot the last time you showered, let alone practiced self-care. Do you even have the time to do it?

Quite often, we can lose the sense of who we are as we go through the experience of pregnancy and the birth of a newborn baby. You might have mixed feelings about no longer being pregnant, your birth experience, your baby and your new role as a parent. For moms, you might also feel differently about how you look and your body’s changes. It can be an immensely overwhelming experience.

Especially for first-time parents, coming home with your new baby is an adjustment. In this case, you may find that you’re anxious about your ability to care for your baby. You may also be concerned about obtaining less income if one of you stays home with your baby, or you’re worried about spending less time on other activities and relationships. These are all valid and normal concerns of a new parent. Taking care of your baby on top of the changes in your emotions and sleep patterns could take a toll on your mental and physical health.

Practising self-care as new parents begin with the belief that self-care is essential and something that you deserve. We’ve been taught that putting our child’s needs in front of our own needs is actually preferred; in fact, it’s what makes us a good parent, some might say. But, taking care of your physical, mental and emotional well-being isn’t just something nice to add to your neverending to-do lists. It’s actually critical for your overall health.

If all you do is to give, give, and give, you’re likely to experience burnout which can adversely affect your health. If you think burnout is exclusively limited to work-related issues, you’ve got it wrong. It’s proven by research that neglecting your own needs has negative consequences for you and your baby. Without adequate breaks and time to breathe, parents can experience parental burnout.

Parental burnout leads to harmful consequences for children. Among the most shocking effect of parental burnout includes being emotionally distant from your baby, indulging in escape ideation, engaging in some form of parental neglect and experiencing severe emotional exhaustion.

According to a study published in Clinical Psychological Science, the researchers concur that “whatever allows parents to recharge their batteries, avoid exhaustion, is good for children.” So, are you convinced yet that adding some form of self-care into your life should be non-negotiable? Keeping yourself happy and healthy will allow you to give the best care possible for your baby. Remember, your needs matter too.

Self-care is important; you get it. But, what should you do to accomplish it?

The first thing that you have to do is to be kind to yourself. Caring for a new baby is a lot of work, and no new parent has all of the answers– and that’s okay. Remember, you can learn as you go. Take your time to enjoy and get to know your baby. Your smile, voice, facial expressions and gentle touch will help you build the connection needed to develop a healthy attachment with your little one. You fed, cuddled and clothed your baby today, and the house didn’t burn down? You’re doing great.

Good nutrition keeps your energy level up and boosts your overall mood. Your nutrition is vital, especially if you’re breastfeeding and your body needs the extra fuel. So, go easy on the sugar and ensure that you get plenty of iron, protein and omega-3s. You should also try to limit your caffeine intake to the first part of the day. One way to maintain a healthy eating habit is to stock up on healthy snacks and fill your freezer with your favourite good-for-you meals. Eating healthy doesn’t mean bland food. There are tons of healthy recipes that you can find on the internet. Alternatively, you could also take full advantage of the delivery options out there.

Exercise. Yes, although you’ve just become a new parent, getting regular exercise is a form of self-care. As you may know, exercising keeps you healthy, improve your mood, helps you get better sleep and with the added bonus of helping to manage your weight – everything a new parent needs. You have multiple options when it comes to exercising. Firstly, you could find a way to exercise with your baby, like a mommy-and-me yoga class or baby boot camp. Secondly, you could ask your partner to take care of the baby while you exercise. Another option is to check if your local gym offers child care.

Again, there is a common notion among new parents that spending time for yourself when you have a child is an act of selfishness. This is completely untrue. Sadly, some people will continue to spread the message that doing things for yourself is considered self-centred or greedy. But, you’ve got to ignore these people and seek out supportive people who understand the struggles of new parenthood. Even if it’s just for a short time; do something that you enjoy, such as soaking in a hot tub or reading your favourite novel. You’ll feel refreshed and ready to take on your next challenge.

Let others help you. Now isn’t the time for independence. Your partner, family and friends are there for you and care about you. If they want to be helpful, it’s okay to accept their help. It’s also completely okay to ask others for help if you feel overwhelmed. Also, it’s important to be specific about what you need. Do you need them to do the grocery? Hand them your grocery list. If you need them to fold the laundry, tell them. And remember, they might not do things exactly like you would but don’t let the little things stress you out.

Self-care doesn’t necessarily mean devoting hours to yourself everyday or taking an extended vacation. That sort of thing is out of reach for the majority of typical parents, especially with a newborn baby in the picture. But, that doesn’t mean you should disregard your self-care altogether. Even just spending 10 to 15 minutes per day can be life-changing. The key is to do something you find enjoyable and do it consistently.

Your mood changes, anxiousness and worries will not last forever. Over time, you’ll feel more confident in your abilities to take care of your baby and family. Until you do, don’t forget to incorporate self-care into your day-to-day life as a new parent. You’ll eventually feel more like yourself again. Heck, you might be surprised at what you can accomplish if you start to care for your mental and physical health.



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