Knowing that these feelings are normal can help. It’s a good idea to confide your feelings to people you love and trust: your partner, your parents, another relative, or a close friend. Connecting with other new parents in your Birth Club or in real life can help you see that you’re far from alone.
Carve out time for yourself. Let your partner or a grandparent stay with your baby while you visit a friend, go shopping, or just take a relaxing bath. Even sitting outside or taking a walk with your baby in the fresh air can be beneficial.
Leave work behind. Really! Remember this is maternity leave. Use these weeks to nurture your ties with your family.
If feelings persist for more than a couple of weeks, tell your doctor. You may have postpartum depression (PPD), a more serious condition. The causes of PPD aren’t completely understood, but it’s not a reflection on whether you’re a “good” mom or “coping well.” Symptoms of PPD include extreme anxiety, panic attacks, changes in eating habits (overeating or loss of appetite), insomnia, and thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.