VICTIM SUPPORT
I assumed caring for a newborn would be pretty easy. How complicated could a little, tiny baby be?
I assumed I was prepared. I had read all of the books so I definitely knew what to expect when I was expecting, didn’t I?
I assumed my life would be one long Johnson’s baby advert.
Turns out that to assume really does make an ass out of you and me. Mainly me.
As much as I loved my new baby, I struggled with motherhood from the start.
Not only did my baby not sleep, but she was very demanding and some days she would not let me put her down at all. I was not only sleep-deprived, but I felt totally out of my depth.
If any of this sounds familiar, here are some resources for any exhausted or struggling parents…. because all babies aren’t Johnson’s babies. They each have their own unique set of challenges!
Home-Start are an amazing charity that support families in need across the UK. They offer local support groups, one-to-one volunteer service and family workshops. They were a lifeline when I had Post Natal Illness. So much so I am about to start a course with them to become a volunteer myself! Visit the website to find one in your area.
Having a new baby is really tough. But if you are really struggling and your bad day turns into a bad week, then a bad month; maybe talk to your GP about Post Natal Depression. Click here for info. This is what happened when I had PND. Here is my story Confessions of a Mental Mother.
Love Mornings Former sleep-deprived mum turned gentle sleep coach Lucy Jones offers some great advice and sleep tips. She may even be able to help you get your little sleep-thief to sleep!
Read about parents who have not only survived a sleep thief but achieved great success because of it in the Survivors Series or follow this link to find out How To Get Your Baby To Go To Sleep and Stay Asleep When They Do Not Want To Be Asleep
Having a baby who does not sleep through the night is totally normal, however in some cases it can be due to a medical condition. Babysleep.org.uk and babyreflux.co.uk offer a wealth of information and support for parents of babies with infant reflux. They also have a great online store with products dedicated to helping your baby get a good night’s sleep and support forum Little Refluxers.
The Better Rest Method features free advice and support for parents suffering from long-term sleep-deprivation. They also offer tips on looking after yourself when you are exhausted! Well worth a visit!
The Fussy Baby Site Support for anyone with a fussy, colicky or high need baby.
Sensitive and Extraordinary. Mother Leila Boukarim talks about the challenges and rewards of life with a highly sensitive child.
Complicated Gorgeousness is by mother Alison Bloomer who writes about life with a child who has an undiagnosed genetic condition. It is hilarious, honest and very inspiring.
Feel free to share you tales of tiredness with me or just have a moan in the comments box below or on Facebook. Misery loves company after all!!