Mental and relationship wellbeing during early parenthood

[muminthesunshine]

First baby girl is due any day....

I have seen so many friends struggle with mental wellbeing during the early days/ weeks/ years.... And the negative effects it has on relationships as a result of the stress and lack of sleep, I guess.

Any tips for how you maintained good mental health AND a healthy, happy relationship during the early parenthood period....?

I think it helps if you have an upfront conversation now and say,

“look the next few weeks/months may be a bit tough, we’re both going to be tired and snappy and focused on the baby rather than each other. Let’s agree not to take any snapping too personally but try to be kind to each other as much as we can. and then reconnect once things settle down”.

Basically if you lower relationship expectations now, it helps!!

Mind you I remember saying something like this to a friend, who thought it was hilarious and unnecessary. Her DC were dream sleepers and easy babies though. Mine were not.

@minipie yes I think that's a really good idea.. I just know what it's like when we've had one late night, let alone months and months of it.

I think as long as we keep communicating and acknowledging the fact that it's tiredness and also prioritising some adult time where possible, having a laugh/ kiss etc.

Thanks for advice x