Entering parenthood is an exciting time in anyone’s life. If you’re a new mother or soon to become a mom, you already know the mix of emotions that comes with the journey of bringing a new family member into your home. While motherhood is not an exact science, and you can’t earn a master’s degree in how to parent, you can certainly use tools and resources to help guide your decision-making and more. If you’re a new mom or are looking to support one, here are a few great resources that might help as you work through the ups and downs of new parenthood.
Support from Other Moms
One of the best things you can do for yourself as a new mom is to have the latest information on parenthood while connecting with other new moms going through the same things as you are. Not only will other mothers validate your worries and concerns, but they can give great tips and tricks for managing your new lifestyle.
A great place to start is by checking out TrulyMama. A fantastic resource for new parents, this site includes important educational materials, support systems for new parents, and the latest in product trends and offerings to make raising kids easier. It will also put you in touch with other mothers in forums where you can offer the helpful exchange of information that could make all the difference as you navigate your growing family.
Professional Resources and Support
Sometimes, becoming a new mom can be overwhelming and may require professional support. If you’re suffering from sadness, anxiety, or other symptoms that are making feeling like yourself again seem difficult or impossible, it could be a good idea to reach out to a professional for help. A therapist or other licensed mental health professional can not only help you with daily life skills as a new mom, but give you a place to vent frustrations and other emotions as you cope with an exciting, but sometimes difficult, transition.
Maybe you live in New York and are attending Columbia University while working on an editorial team for a magazine. Perhaps you work from home and are learning to manage remote work while balancing the challenges that come with adding to your family. As a busy new mom, you might find yourself struggling to juggle a new routine. Where you once checked the weather channel in the morning, it could be difficult to remember what day it even is in the early stages of new motherhood. If you’re having challenges around how to balance work, responsibilities, and being a new mom, the good news is that you’re perfectly normal. It can take time to come up with a new routine and get back to things you were once interested in. Instead of being your own worst critic, take a deep breath, and consider reaching out to a therapist if you need new tools to bring balance back to your life.
Relying on Friends and Family
Some new moms make the mistake of thinking they can do it all alone. While it’s certainly not impossible to raise a child on your own, it’s a lot easier with help and support from people you know and trust. Every mom needs and deserves a day off. Whether you’re pregnant now or have recently had a baby, it’s a good idea to take a look around your family and friend groups to see who you can depend on to help out.
Maybe you have a sister who has kids, and you know she does a great job raising your niece and nephew. Perhaps your mother-in-law or father is retired and could watch your baby once a month, so you can have a date night with your partner. A best friend, a co-worker you trust, or even a reputable babysitter could all make a huge difference if you’re not feeling energized or if you’re burnt out. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You and your child will benefit from your time off.
After having a baby or adding a child to your family, the best resources any new mom can have often include support. Whether an online app and support group or the family, friends, and mental health healthcare providers in her daily world, these people and systems will add up to fantastic resources for any new mom. If you’re a new parent and can offer your help to others in return, that will be appreciated as well. Congratulations on your new addition, and don’t be afraid to reach out!
