Many of us are excited to share the addition of a new baby with our family, friends, and other loved ones. However, sometimes it can come with stressful interactions, or increased time spent with people you might have a difficult or strained relationship with. Or it might create tension with people that we love.
At a time when you are already managing a period of intense change and finding your own way through early parenthood, it can feel really challenging to need to manage these relationships or interactions as well.
It’s okay to feel a range of feelings.
You may feel delighted at the opportunity to connect with your family or friends, or you may feel that it is an obligation that you would prefer to avoid.
You might feel exhausted or be managing your mental health, and it can feel tiring to host family and friends that you have strained relationships with at your home.
It can be hard to listen to unwanted advice or opinions about the way you parent or what is best for your baby. It can be confusing when advice and opinions come from people that you love and respect, but it doesn’t align with your views.
You might feel disappointed about the level of involvement or support you receive from your family, or you might feel grief for family members who are no longer here.
It can be a lot to navigate when you are expecting a baby or have a newborn. Here you’ll find some tips for nurturing your own wellbeing while maintaining healthy relationships.
Helpful Information
Self-care for pregnancy and new parenthood
Tips to help you deal with difficult relationships
1
Asserting boundaries
2
Dealing with unwanted advice
3
Limit Social Media
4
Acknowledge your feelings
5
Prioritise self-care
6
Define what family means to you
Tips from PANDA’s Community Champions
“Don’t have guests unless you know for a fact they will self cater and help out. Consider getting takeaway to keep things super casual.”
“Put boundaries in place to protect you mental wellbeing.”
“Don't feel too pressured to spend time with family if it's overwhelming. Take some time out and have a nap even if people are around for events.”
“Don’t be afraid to say no. You don’t have to take on more than you want to and you don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do. There’s no point trying to make others happy if it makes you miserable.”
“Protect and respect your boundaries. Take responsibility for your energy management and give time to yourself.”
Articles
Mental health checklist
How are you going?
Everyone’s experience of pregnancy, birth and parenting is unique and brings different rewards and challenges. Our mental health checklist can help you to see if what you’re experiencing or observing in a loved one could be reason to seek help.
Helpful Information