Hi, I wish I lived closer, I would come and help, seriously. But in London. Gosh I thought my life had been bad/is bad, then I read others posts, and think god I really need to be more greatful for the good things.
Okay, was your baby planned? Only wondering because it might be adding to why you feel this way? Plus as you are saying you are a single parent and baby is only 4 weeks old.
I would agree with other posters and say yes if not Health Visitor then try to see your GP, you have in certain terms just had a baby, you will be all over the place.
And of course your own individual circumstances will not help. Of course if lots of the factors were different, you would probably feel a lot better.
I am not knowledgeable on what the circumstances are if you are a full time student, but I thought as that then makes working harder, that you would be entitled to something. The little bit of child benefit will help, and have you thought about ringing up for a Universal Credit, not being thick but assuming it works similarly around the country?
You are only 21, so although it is hard for you, please take some comfort from the fact you are still really young and have plenty of time to get yourself sorted and Life around having a little one. I was 38 when I had my first child, and although some thought it was great as I'd had so much life, it's actually worse in some ways. Where as think of it this way, by the time your child is in school you will still be only in your 20's. I am glad that you found Mumsnet and that we have places like this to come on to and find help.
The not being on benefits/then not able to get other help is ridiculous. As even those working who do not qualify for things, are then thought of as better off, and they aren't. They just didn't choose to claim or don't meet requirements, which is tough on a parent.
I know it seems like everything needs doing, but please do what has to be done, the other things can wait. The baby may well settle more when you are feeling better. Believe me there isn't always a natural instant bond. And my housing situation was crap too, of which I was torn apart on here for, as we were in a shared house. So please take comfort from the fact that if you have something self contained you are better off. But the 3rd floor situation must be very hard. Do you have any friends who can help, as you are at Uni so guessing that you might of made some friends. Also had a C section emergency one, so I know where you are coming from 100%! You have had what is considered a major operation, it's no walk in the park or the easy way out, as those I know who had a natural birth told me!
All of this has taken its toll on you, and you could find in a matter of weeks you feel so much better. But it is hard to think like that when you are currently going through this. So even if it puts your mind at ease, please seek medical advice/help, to get you through this stage. Sorry I've rambled a bit but hope some of it helps!x