Is anyone else struggling in isolation with a baby?

[Strugglingbee]

I'm really struggling, I don't know if I can carry on. I understand that it's for the greater good and I definitely don't think that anything should be being done differently, but I am finding it a bit much at the moment.

I left a job I loved following the birth of DS as I secured a job closer to home. Or so I thought, due to everything going on the offer has been withdrawn, which is understandable but we will lose our house. DH is away with work, I am stuck at home with DS who is 6 months and won't stop screaming, crying, not sleeping- it's relentless. I don't feel well, I don't think I have covid but have a cough so obviously staying in just in case, but it's hell. I can't cope with DS, the stress of it and not being able to get any help. I can't get any sort of delivery, and the local help group say I'm not eligible. My friends are all back where I moved from not long ago, and family are vulnerable so we can't go out. Hardly any food, a tiny bit of formula left for DS and that's it. Have some money for now in savings although it won't last long it would buy food.

Is anyone else struggling? Any tips for coping?

No tips I'm afraid. Just a bit of a vent.

Is there nobody who can get food for you? Any local Facebook volunteer groups? Ring your health visitor to see what they suggest.

If not, just go to the shops. Your child cannot, not be fed.

Can you ask a neighbour? I don't know my neighbours but would happily help out in the circumstances

Failing that lots of smaller retailers here are doing free delivery - pubs, newsagents, farm shops etc.

Wheres your husband? You aren't coping. He needs to help with money etc. Please see theres a community facebook group and ask on there. Or pop a note through a neighbours door - this isn't the time to be shy.

I would go to the shop if all else fails your baby needs milk

Definitely sympathise. I have a 2 year old and a 2 month old, and I'm struggling hugely. Luckily I have DH who can help in the evenings, but the days are very, very long. I made my toddler cry earlier by shouting at him when I was stressed trying to calm my screaming baby and he wanted my attention - I've never lost my rag at him to that extent before

With regards formula, if you can use Aptamil they are now selling it direct from their website temporarily as they know it's hard to buy in supermarkets. It takes 2-3 days to arrive but it does work.

We will all get through this eventually.

That does sound difficult, it’s not surprising you’re struggling. Your DH should be doing more to help.

I’m also at home with a small baby and a 3 year old. It’s very tiring not having any outside activities to entertain him, no playgroups, library singing, playgrounds etc. This is a hard time to be a new mum.

When I had my 1st child (many years ago ) after 6 months some Mums would give their babies full cream cows milk or diluted condensed milk instead of formula.

Did your cough develop in the last 7 days? If it's been longer than 7 days since the onset and you've not had any fever in 7 days I think you're allowed to go out? Check the NHS symptom checker to be sure