If you're used to doing everything on your own, you may need to adjust how you do things after you have a baby, because you're going to need all the help you can get. Carolyn Wagner, licensed professional counselor and psychotherapist at Linebarger & Associates told me, "There are tons of resources for preparing for the arrival of your baby, and many expectant moms do a fantastic prep job."
No matter how much you prepare, however, things come up. Wagner continued, "You buy all of the recommended gadgets, arrange for meals and visitors and help, sign up for the baby and me classes, and decorate the nursery. But when you're in the thick of it, you will always wish you had an extra set of hands or a shoulder to lean on. Don't turn away any offers of help and there is no shame in asking for more. Whether it's from friends and family or a postpartum doula or nanny, get the support you need. There's no special medal for going it alone."
Crystal Clancy, a perinatal mental health expert and executive director of community engagement for the non-profit Pregnancy and Postpartum Support Minnesota shared some great resources. "There are parents groups, [Early Childhood Family Education] classes, postpartum doulas, and many other options," she said. "Find out what is available to you before baby arrives, so that you have the information handy if you need it. The faster you seek help, the faster you will feel better."
