You are pregnant. It’s your first, and maybe only, child. You’re excited, nervous, and unsure what to expect. You’re already making lots of decisions in preparation for the arrival of your little one, and on top of it all, you live far away from family.
You might be wondering how you and your partner(s) are going to pull this off. Not just the birth, but the weeks, months, and even years that follow.
Firstly, you’re not alone. This is a very common experience for many people, and there are options.
Perhaps you have a family member (or members) who can come and support you and your newly formed family temporarily. Or perhaps you don’t. Whatever your circumstances, there are ways to build a support system around you.
Maybe you could ask a friend, or a few friends, to take shifts helping out. Perhaps you could turn a baby shower into a food-prep day, where your community comes together to cook and freeze meals so that one less thing is on your plate. Or you might consider hiring someone to provide support, without having to navigate any family dynamics that might come along with a family member flying out to help.
There are also touchpoints with a Child and Family Health Nurse, provided through government services, where you can ask questions and find out where to access support. You may also be connected with a parent group through these services, giving you the opportunity to meet other new parents who are navigating similar experiences.
The emotions that come with all of this change — happiness, sadness, overwhelm, excitement, anger, and everything in between — and the worries around support don’t have to be experienced on your own, either. Friends, family, and your partner(s) can be there to support you. Sometimes, though, there can be a fear of judgement that makes it difficult to share what you’re really feeling.
I offer a judgement-free space where you can build a therapeutic relationship that gives you room to be honest about what’s going on for you. A space where you can breathe, feel held, understood, and cared for. Where we can brainstorm to build a post birth support plan that is right for you
I’ve been through it. I get it.
These experiences aren’t meant to be navigated in a silo. The emotions you’re experiencing have been felt by others who have been in similar positions, too.
Reach out for support. It’s here.
