South West Wellbeing Centre
Jay Anderson
Having a baby?? or recently had a baby? Whether its your first child or a new addition to the family……..Its been an interesting few months I am sure!! Body changes. Planning and preparing. Looking forward to the birth and being a parent……….How are you going?? Hows your partner and family coping? What are the challenges this week?
There will be things you can plan for and things that happen quite unexpectedly. This can cause anxiety and stress. Sleepless nights or active “worry” brains. So many things to consider. So much to think about. What is there to worry about? It can be destabilising, unsettling or disconcerting. So who is looking after you? Are you looking after you??? That’s the really important question……
Each person is different, and we all cope differently. However if changes keep happening, then this can be disruptive. Being isolated can be a particular challenge. Usually this would be more social isolation, or being separate from family support – but now with COVID-19 in the world there is an additional factor to consider…..Can’t go out? or see friends? Or maybe we “can” (need a walk? Join me for a run at the park?) …other challenges? Well – what about being stuck in a small space with the same people for a significant period of time. Or being alone and not able to connect in with family and friends. Reflect on what has happened in your country and for your family. Here we want you to be solution focused and problem solve for some positive and helpful strategies.
For everyone, having a routine can provide stability and assist you to be calm and relaxed. Also, sharing your feelings with someone else and having another’s support. You might have some “go to” strategies that work – and here’s a few others to keep in mind.
Here are a few strategies to assist:
- Maintaining consistency with routines is important – eating, breaks, sleeping….
- Being in nature – spending time in fresh air and sunshine is fantastic. Contemplating colours, shapes and patterns. Either by yourself or with someone else.
- Enjoyable Activities – Do something you enjoy every day. It doesn’t need to be huge. A walk down at the park. A yoga class, some meditation or a bath. That special hot drink. Plan something to look forward to.
- Physical Activity – A routine of physical activity can help in so many ways. It might be a walk to a local park or it may be meeting a friend for a bike ride. Perhaps a swim at the pool with the family, or a gym class.
- Doing things together – Having some fun things to do together. Consider this as a couple or family – doing things together for enjoyment, connection and happiness – Board games. music. Gardening
- Having time with friends – someone who cares and understands. Who can listen…..
- My time – Your time – In a relationship? Don’t forget some “time apart” – doing what each of you are interested in. reading a book, going to the park. Listening to music?
- If things are difficult or your mood doesn’t improve, then consider connecting with a counsellor or Psychologist – who can provide support for managing emotions or for parenting and relationship support. This can be face to face or telehealth.
As we have considered here – Looking after YOU is vital. So often we look after others, caring for those around us. There are many challenges and many things to consider. I can be contacted for more information on info@swwellbeing.com.au
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