Coping

[georgia1509]

I've got a 12 week old baby, how do I cope on my own at home because right now I'm really struggling to cope😭he's started teething too which makes it worse. It's hard to get out of the house because there's 2/3 big steps and it's hard to get the pram out. Any advice is welcome as I'm on the verge of breaking down 😭

Oh you poor thing being in the house with baby, especially when they won't stop crying, is hellish. I have a 9 month old and have to get out every day no matter how tired I am, I really struggle otherwise.

OK a few things that that might help. Do you have a sling or baby carrier? They are so good for taking baby out and about if you can't take the pram out - I prefer them as it's much less restrictive, your hands are free and baby is snuggled up to you. They're not for everyone but it was a game changer for me with both DC. If you're not sure, look up your nearest NCT sling library, good way of trying them out and seeing what suits you. I have an Ergo 360 which is better for my back, but there are so many types out there.

Is there anyone in your life who could help you? Even just a day a week? Do you have any friends with small children? I was invited to join a first time mums group which really helped, if you can get out then there is so much support out there.

Is your health visitor any good? Always worth giving them a call to talk through things. Even if they can't help they can give reassurance.

And finally, keep reminding yourself this is a phase and will pass. I know it doesn't feel like it but it does get easier...

WhoAteAllthePercyPigs

I have a baby carrier but he isn't too keen on it. I live with my parents,partner and baby. Both my mum& partner are at work all day, I'm on my own with him from 7:30 till 5:45 every day,my dad works nights so he's in bed during the day. I'm 18 so my friends don't really have babies. My sister is at home all day but every time I ask her to come down or see if I can go to her house she always 'has plans or is busy'. Makes me feel pretty rubbish knowing my own sister won't spend time with me,especially when I need it the most.

My partners friends has babies but they don't live near to us so it's hard meeting them. I always feel anxious whenever I go out with my baby just incase he starts full on crying and people judge me for it,especially as I am young.

I don't have the energy to do things,he wears me out so much,as his teeth are coming through he isn't sleeping much during the day so I can't can't up on any sleep. I just feel like I'm a rubbish mum atm,maybe I'm just feeling sorry for myself but I just feel horrible and drained constantly

It will get easier lovely

The first weeks are always hard as your getting into a routine and learning what to do. I was also a young mummy, please don't feel like people are judging you, I went above and beyond to prove myself with my son and got myself so stressed about what others thought but now I am a little older I have learnt no one does judge you and your age has nothing to do with if you will be a good Mum or not.

I would say even though it's a complete faff getting out the house in the first place it is worth it in the end, I used to go and walk in the park or just look round town and I always felt better for it even if the initial bit is stressful! I also joined the local chat boards and met mums online with babies the same age and that was really good for me and my local children's centre did new baby groups and the staff there always would help with baby so I could have a drink and chat with the other mummies and a vent.

Xx