You probably had no idea how sleep-deprived you would be! You can’t give to your baby if you nave nothing left to give. It’s time to raise that white flag and there is no shame in that.
Asking for help might not come easy to you. Remember, family and friends want to help. Put down the guilt and pick up the phone.
TIPS:
- Call someone you trust.
- Be specific with what you need. “Can you please come over and hold my baby for two hours while I take a nap and a shower?”
- Share the responsibilities with your partner. Set up shifts.
- It’s ok to say NO if people want to visit.
- It’s ok to say YES if people want to bring a meal.
- Put a note on your front door that says, “Mom and baby are resting. Please come back later.” Don’t feel guilty about it.
- Ask a friend or family member to take older children out of the house for a while to give you some alone time with your new baby.