Maternity leave as single parent - ideas ?

[Hiuu]

i am a bit worried I won’t cope as I have a history of depression and anxiety.

What sorts of things could I do (not practical as hoping I have that sorted… more for enjoyment/nice things) to get through the days?

Thanks

I was worried about being bored etc on maternity leave but I am loving it. Baby is 6 months now and before he was born I spent my days walking the dog and nesting at home - it was dreamy! I organised all his little things and finished his nursery; organised a few things around the house etc. I did go a bit cleaning mad right at the end which was hilarious to everyone in our road as I cleaned my car to operating theatre standards and had a queue asking to do theirs 😂😂😂 Once bubba was here the baby care obviously takes over so that was quite a busy time! If you live alone, I would say see if you can have someone come and stay with you for a bit to help you right at the start- not necessarily with baby but cooking or cleaning etc so those first few weeks you have a bit of help! That way you can sleep when baby sleeps in the day. It’s a lovely time I really have enjoyed it- it’s quieter than when I was hectic at work but we are living in a lovely bubble bubba & me and now we do some fun things together like swimming, baby library.. one thing new I did- learnt to crochet when he’s been napping! enjoy & congrats! Xx

Try joining a few social apps
There is an app called FROLO which is a single parent community which is always supportive
Then there are mum apps like peanut and mush
There might be groups on Meet-up in your area too

Ah you'll build a magic little world for the two of you 🥰.
Things that might add extra enjoyment in the early weeks;

• a stretchy wrap sling (Hana wrap or similar) and book a session when baby has arrived at a along library or with a along consultant to help you feel confident using it it gives you back your hands when you might need or want them.

,- join the library, download their app so you can access audiobooks, then in a harder day going for a walk with a great book on your headphones might be helpful.

• Baby massage classes are great first classes with baby.
• lovely moisturiser with a scent you love or other pampery bits so you can do some nice intentional self care when you get a chance.
• booking in some meet ups with friends for adult conversation if they also involve nice lunch or cake all the better :)
• some good meals on the freezer that are easy to eat one handed are always a good idea :)

I wud find a few baby groups that I like. Check out your childrens centres, village hall, leisure centre (might have mum and baby swimming), and libraries.

with my first I had a weekly class I went to and had friends I met up with on a weekly basis. I wasn’t single but was in a shit relationship and these things kept me sane…