One parent’s perinatal mood and anxiety disorder (PMAD) affects everyone in the family including the spouse or partner. It’s essential to practice good self-care to stay healthy and be available for your partner and children.
Tips for taking care of yourself … and each other!
- Be kind to yourself by setting reasonable expectations.
- Ask for help, information and support for yourself.
- Understand that PMAD is a medical problem and is not anybody’s fault. Show compassion.
- Develop a supportive circle for your family. Say yes when others offer to help.
- Realize that helping your partner adjust to the new baby may increase the strength of your relationship.
- Take time for yourselves. Continue to follow some of your own interests.
- Be aware of your own needs for sleep, healthy eating, exercise, etc.
- Keep the lines of communication open between each other.
- Verbalize your feelings instead of distancing yourself from your partner.
- Take a break if tempers are hot. Resume discussion later.
- Find someone to talk to besides your partner.
- Do not blame yourself.
- Do not try to fix this alone.
You are not alone! Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders are the #1 complication of pregnancy. Pine Rest has innovative, proven programs to help you feel like yourself again.
