Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico | Blue for Your Health | Spring 2021

Stressing for two: Coping tips for new moms Feeling overwhelmed? Being a mom has its joys, but caring for a new baby can be very stressful too. It’s important to take care of yourself. New moms often find these habits helpful: ■ Take frequent rest breaks. To get as much rest as you can, sleep when the baby sleeps. ■ Don’t go it alone. Ask a partner, friend or family mem- ber for help. For example, someone can run an errand for you or sit with the baby while you take a walk. ■ Make time to get out. Refresh yourself by doing things you enjoyed before the baby, like visiting friends or spending time on hobbies. ■ Put big changes on pause. Try to avoid other major life changes right now, like moving or starting a new job. Those can add to your stress. ■ Talk it out. Don’t bottle up your feelings. Consider joining a support group so you can talk with other new moms. ■ Steer clear of alcohol and drugs. These can make you feel worse—and make it harder to care for your baby. Postpartum depression While mood swings are com- mon for new moms as their bodies adjust, postpartum depression can also start within one to three weeks of having a baby. Symptoms can include: ■ Feeling sad, hopeless, or overwhelmed ■ Frequent crying ■ Having thoughts about hurting the baby ■ Having thoughts of hurting yourself ■ Not having any interest in the baby ■ Having no energy or motivation ■ Eating too little or too much ■ Sleeping problems ■ Feeling worthless, guilty, or like a bad mother ■ Losing interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy ■ Withdrawing from friends and family If you have any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, you should tell your provider. With help, you can feel like yourself again—and enjoy this precious time with your new baby. Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; March of Dimes; Office on Women’s Health 4 Blue for Your Health Spring 2021