Happy Parents - Happy Baby - Six Ways to Navigate Emotional Health with Lessons by Laney

On November 24th, 2021, I officially, with great honor, took on the roll of GiGi-mom to our amazing little A.J.!

Words cannot express the joy and wonder of Andrew Benjamin Jr’s adorable and magical addition to our family! Jackie and Andrew Sr. are doing an amazing job and they are certainly learning that becoming a parent is one of life’s most rewarding yet challenging ventures!

Starting a new family or welcoming another child into the clan is a huge milestone! Though there will be many joyful moments, it isn’t always easy! There are many changes and adjustments on the horizon. FIRST: Understand that it is not uncommon to feel stressed, sleep deprived, anxious, depressed or overwhelmed at times.

It is important, actually vital, for you to take some time for yourself. Though you will want to spend as much time as possible with your baby, be sure to carve out “me” and “we” time.

Ask a family member, friend or hire someone that you trust (and have thoroughly checked out with references) that can help you.

Even just a few hours each week of taking care of you can have a huge impact on improving your mental, emotional and physical health. Though it’s normal to feel some stress from time to time, keeping calm and being relaxed around the little one as often as possible is essential. SECOND: Sleep must be a priority (even if it is reduced for awhile).

One of the most important components to keeping up with positive mental and physical health is to make certain we rest our bodies and minds so they can heal us, regenerate us and keep us healthy.

Anyone with babies will tell you that sleep is often a luxury in the early months. If the baby is not sleeping through the night yet, create a schedule with your partner, friend or family member to alternate taking care of the little one. If you are fortunate to have a Doula, they can also be of tremendous help during the early weeks and months.

Also, be sure to take advantage of baby’s nap time during the day. Even if you can’t take a nap yourself, try to rest up or do something relaxing during those intervals.

As much as you love and are in awe of the newest family member, it is vitally important to remember to take care of YOU too! This is key to your success as a parent and navigating your emotional health.

Here are 6 important reminders on your journey:

THIRD: Reach out to other parents.

New Parent? We want to hear from you!

Whether online, on the phone or in-person, talking with other parents can be immensely helpful and a relief. Sharing experiences, suggestions, difficulties and just knowing someone can relate and listen can be invaluable. You will feel less alone and more connected.

FOURTH: Have a go-to person. These positive, loving moments are crucial for both baby and parent and will pave the way (and neural pathways in the brain) to strong emotional and psychological health for your life and your baby’s.

This will help immensely with something called secure attachment. This can greatly help your child throughout their lifespan. Research has shown that “secure” attachment in a baby leads to strong self-esteem and healthier relationships during adolescence and adulthood.

Whether this is your partner, best friend, a close family member, a mentor or professional, be sure to reach out to that person when you need to talk. Being a new parent brings so many new experiences and can stir up lots of emotions and feelings. Talking and being reassured can bring a sense of calm and relief.

FIFTH: Bond with your baby.

Bonding with your baby during quiet, feeding or playful moments are so important to the health and wellbeing of your baby and YOU. Whether it is singing a song, talking to them, holding them, reading or playing with them, these wonderful moments can have a lifetime positive impact moving forward. Research shows that the first five years of life, a child’s brain develops over 90%. SIXTH: Carve out YOU time on the calendar!

Don’t forget on your must do list that it’s important to plan date nights, get togethers with friends, simple things like going to the gym, taking a long walk or go get your hair done! Don’t just make “me” time about your career. Yes, time will be more limited and of course you want to leave your child with a loving, trusting adult, but remember that part of keeping a healthy mind, spirit and body are crucial to being a good, loving parent. Children learn from example.

The new journey and path that is ahead can be rewarding, loving, exciting, challenging and demanding. The healthiest path to being a loving, empathic parent is to be your best self and you will only get there by remembering it really is OK and a necessity to take good care of yourself now and always.

With best wishes, Laney Z.

Laney Zukerman is a Self Published Author, Relationship Expert and has over TWO MILLION VIEWS on Quora.com