Tips for new mums: How not to lose your mind
Becoming parents for the first time is a wonderful experience, but it can also be a rollercoaster of emotions. On this journey, especially for new mothers, you face a series of physical, emotional and social changes, which can be difficult because you don’t know what to expect.
I have been around some friends who have been mothers and they have all faced the challenges that come with it, we are used to only hearing or seeing the slightly more romantic version of motherhood, but there is so much more…
That’s why I want to share with you, the experience of one of my closest friends, and some of the tips she has learned so far to overcome the perplexity and dispersion that a new mum can feel.
What it’s like to be a new mum
“When I was pregnant, I had a lot of ideas about what it would be like to be a mother. I thought it would be easy, that I would feel ready and that I would do everything right. But, the reality is very different.
The first thing that struck me was bewilderment. I didn’t know what to expect. Everything was new to me, and I felt lost and confused.
I didn’t know how to change a nappy, how to feed my baby, or how to calm him when he cried. I felt like I was in a maths class where I didn’t understand anything.
I was also surprised by the intensity of emotions. I was overwhelmed by love, joy, tiredness and stress. Sometimes I felt so overwhelmed that I didn’t know how to handle it all.”
The bewilderment of new motherhood
It’s normal to feel bewildered and uncertain in the early days. Don’t worry, this is normal and can be caused by many things:
- Lack of experience: It is natural to feel lost or confused because it is your first baby, and you may not have the experience.
- The amount of information available: At this time we can find endless information, it can get to a point where you become saturated with it and it can be difficult to know what information is reliable and what information is not.
- Physical and emotional changes: Pregnancy and childbirth can cause many physical and emotional changes.
The scatterbrained state of new motherhood
Being a mother is also a journey that at first is like wandering, going from one thing to another. Your attention becomes a division of so many different things that it is difficult to concentrate on one thing.
It’s not just the responsibility of taking care of your baby, it’s also the household chores, work, and your relationship with your partner.
The feeling can be overwhelming, and it is not a linear process to find the balance between everything, accepting this is the principle that will help you try to keep the pressure down.
Tips for new mums
Everyone deals with motherhood in their way but at the same time, everyone can be equally lost at first, so if you are pregnant or a new mother, here are some tips that can help you overcome the bewilderment and confusion of being a mother:
1. Don’t compare yourself with other mothers.
Every mother is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Don’t compare yourself to other mothers, or the perfect image of motherhood portrayed on social media.
2. Ask for help when you need it.
You don’t have to do it all by yourself. Ask your partner, your family, or your friends for help. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
3. Take care of yourself.
It is important to take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Get enough sleep, eat healthy, and exercise. If you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to take care of your baby.
4. Seek support online or from individuals.
One of the things we can be thankful for today is that there are many resources available for new mothers, but be cautious about the information you access. Seek support online or in person, whether in support groups, forums, or workshops.
5. Be patient.
Bringing a baby into the world is an incredible experience, but it is also a learning process. Be patient with yourself and your baby.
6. Trust your instincts.
You are your baby’s mother, and you know what is best for your baby. Trust your instincts and don’t be afraid to make decisions on your own.
And most importantly, enjoying every moment of being a mother is a wonderful experience. Enjoy every moment with your baby.
How can you take care of me as a new mother?
It is important to take care of yourself physically and emotionally, even when you are a new mother. This will help you be better prepared to care for your baby.
- Get enough sleep: Sleep is essential for your physical and mental health. Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
- Eat healthy: A healthy diet will give you the energy you need to care for your baby.
- Exercise: Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve your mood. Find time for yourself: It is important to make time for yourself, even when you are busy. Do something that you enjoy and that makes you feel good.
Learn patience as a mother
Patience is an important virtue for new mothers. It is important to remember that everything takes time, and you don’t have to be perfect, remember:
Realistic expectations: Set realistic expectations about what you can achieve. Don’t put pressure on yourself to be perfect.
Accept help: Ask for help when you need it. Don’t try to do it all by yourself.
Give yourself a break: Take a break when you need it. Go out with friends, or just relax at home.
Motherhood is a beautiful journey, filled with love, laughter, and precious memories. Take time to savour every moment with your baby, laugh at the messy moments, capture those precious photos and videos, and don’t miss the little things, like their first smile or their first hug. Because above all, that’s what it’s all about – enjoying this incredible experience.
If you are a new mum or know someone who is, please share this article with them. You can also find helpful resources and articles for your baby on our website.
