Enjoying The Holidays As A New Mom

Being a new mom during the holidays can be tough. You're learning to adjust to your new life with all obligations, commitments, and pressures of the holidays at the same time. They key to making it through this season is open communication.

• Talk to your partner and express any concerns you might have - whether it's pressure from family members, logistics of navigating various celebrations, or anything else worrying you.
• Decide what you're comfortable with, and determine a plan to communicate to friends and family if you need to scale back celebrations or move locations to better accommodate your new baby's schedule.
• Be clear and direct with family members about how you're feeling and how they can help you enjoy the holidays.

Generally, friends and family want to help and support you, but they often don't know what you need. Be honest and up front about what you need from your loved ones, while your focus rests on your little one! Remember that it's entirely normal to experience some level of depression following the birth of a baby. Many women experience sadness, crying, anxiety, worry, irritability, and feelings of loneliness. Often, these feelings will subside on their own. However, if you're struggling and having a hard time, contact your EAP (Employee Assistance Program) or healthcare provider right away. You may be experiencing postpartum depression, and getting help from a qualified professional will help you and your family right away!