Steps to Wellness: Part 1.

When moms contact me, questioning their emotional roller coasters during pregnancy or during their postpartum year, I always start back at the basics. The Steps to Wellness were developed by Jane Honikman, founder of PEP and later Postpartum International.  More than thirty years later, they are just as relevant to all people, especially new parents.

Today I am going to review the first 3 steps.  They are so blatantly simple, but so often overlooked by new parents as the demands of a new little one take their toll. 

The first thing I want all new parents to know, is that you are not alone in feeling this way.  Whether you are feeling sad, hopeless, worried, or angry, you are not the first parent and you won't be the last.   It is important to know you are not alone and that it is not forever. 
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Around 80 percent of new mothers experience the "Baby Blues" during the first two weeks of their new little ones' life. Between 20 and 50 percent will experience a more serious condition, such as depression or anxiety.

These conditions are common, but not normal and can be treated. 

Once you understand a little more about postpartum mental health conditions, it is important to know that simply being able to make time for our own health can make a world of difference. This is obviously easier said than done!
The first thing I advise new parents to do to help manage their symptoms is get some sleep.
Ideally a parent can get 6 uninterrupted hours of sleep in a 24 hour period.
If someone is experiencing many symptoms of depression or anxiety, it is really important part of their wellness plan to work these hours in.  This can take some creative thinking and support from others to make happen. 

Again, a simple step that is easily lost in the chaos of new parenthood.  Eating and eating to nourish your body. 
If you are feeling miserable, irritable, or cranky, think back to what you have (or in many cases haven't) eaten. 
Take the time to eat well.  It can be very difficult to see where meal prep will fit into your life, but once you are eating well, your body will have the fuel it needs to continue to parent. 
Aim for 6 small meals, covering all the food groups throughout the day. Easy to eat snacks are a hit because often you are eating over a baby's head. 
Work with your support team to make sure you are not skipping out on eating. 

If you are a new parent, and you haven't been taking the time to rest or eat, please do!  It will serve you and your family well to be fed and rested. 

Next week I will review steps 4-6. 


-Elizabeth