Tips For New Moms: How To Avoid Post-Natal Loneliness

The Tea

After giving birth, a new mom will start a new chapter of her life with feelings of hope and happiness. However, settling into new routines associated with childcare can often lead to isolation. You may find yourself at home alone as the only partner on parental leave. You might not able to see your friends as often as you did before you gave birth thanks to a wave of new responsibilities. And when you do see them, you may find it harder to connect than usual since they haven’t been through what you’re experiencing. We’re sharing some tips on avoiding post-natal loneliness, one of the biggest unspoken challenges of being a new mom.

The Brew

Bringing a new person to this world is a blissful experience. After all, a new mom forgets any pains when her little one grasps her finger tightly, doesn’t she?

Those first few weeks and months are simultaneously filled with moments of joy and sadness. You’ll experience intense pride and happiness as your baby reaches new milestones, but the extra time spent at home without adult companionship can lead to loneliness. Some new moms have a hard time being happy as they struggle with the inner turmoil they are too afraid to share with others.

Research says 90% of new moms experience loneliness and 54% feel friendless

Learn how to overcome the moments of unhappiness so you can truly feel better below.

How to avoid loneliness as a new mom

1. Prioritize self-care 

We often put ourselves in the background as soon as we welcome little ones into our lives. There are times when new moms don’t even get to shower. Truth be told, the first period of motherhood can take a toll on our physical and mental well-being. Carving out time for self-care is extremely helpful and will make you feel better. You can do things like:

• Skipping the housework and concentrating on yourself for a while. Nothing bad will happen if you postpone that load of laundry or leave those dishes in the sink a bit longer. Do some skincare, paint your nails, have a soak in the tub, or try out a new hairstyle. Remember what it feels like to pamper yourself.
• Start going for daily walks because nature can really heal you. The fresh air will benefit both you and your baby. In addition to walks, opt for early morning yoga sessions to feel better. 
• Begin a mindfulness meditation practice. It helps impart calmer feelings, leaving you to feel more energized and happy.
• Nap when your baby naps, because sleep is essential. 

2. Spend time with your partner 

67% of couples struggle with reduced relationship satisfaction after their first baby. Many new moms struggle to maintain a relationship with their spouse, which can lead to distance and unhappiness. You might feel like your partner doesn’t completely understand what you’re going through because your parental responsibilities and journeys have been different, but recommitting to your love will do wonders for your mental health.

For instance, you can start having movie nights when the baby naps and carve out some couple time in the bathtub. Don’t forget to be affectionate; physical affection helps release happy hormones. In addition to this, make sure that you are communicating with your partner to resolve misunderstandings rather than letting them consume your happiness.

3. Connect with a support group 

If you feel like the people in your existing circles won’t understand you, reach out to people who will. Support groups for new moms exist both physically and virtually, so you can find connections whichever way suits you best.

Joining one will give you opportunities to share your feelings and confide in people who understand exactly what you’re going through while offering non-judgmental support.

4. Consider therapy 

In addition to talking to other moms and making lifestyle changes, it’s best that you talk to a therapist because your unhappiness might stem from extended postpartum depression. An expert can help you set happiness goals that are manageable. The best thing about therapy is that it enables and empowers you to become positive from within, promising better mental clarity and happier feelings. 

The Pour

Finally, remember that your situation is temporary. Your baby will grow up, and as they become more independent you’ll be able to have more time to spend with others. Know that it’s normal to experience loneliness and frustration as a new mom, but you don’t have to let those sad feelings take over forever.