Self-care

Taking time to care for yourself can improve your ability to cope with the stress of caring for a baby. To practice self-care:

• Get as much rest as you can
• Ask for help and accept offers of help
• Go easy on yourself
• Get rid of unrealistic expectations about what life with a baby should look like
• Take a little time each day for yourself, if possible

In addition to relying on the support of family and friends, you're also likely to benefit from befriending parents of babies. These connections can be a great source of understanding. They can also remind you that you aren't alone.