5 Things a New Mother Needs

New moms need the works to aid them in taking care of a newborn, but they need something more than diapers, cribs, toys, or blankets to keep it all together. Beneath the fatigue and tear-stained face is a woman screaming for help to not just get through a night without sleep, but a battle cry for someone to understand, and whisk her into normalcy. Meeting the emotional, spiritual, creative, and social needs are important for any mom or woman to thrive. Where do we begin this very interesting and common dilemma with practical tips to help a gal in need? We will throw away perfection immediately, and enter into the realization that nothing is easy. "The fastest way to break the cycle of perfectionism and become a fearless mother is to give up the idea of doing it perfectly - indeed to embrace uncertainty and imperfection,” author Arianna Huffington said.

Stress

People underestimate the stress of having a child. For some, they go with the flow. Not this kind of chick. The anxiety is off the charts with mood disorders surfacing. The once stable person is moving into a complete metamorphosis of an alien. This disturbance can be counteracted by offering support for mom. Affirm her that the stress will dissipate and offer encouragement by the ton! Said mommy author and parent expert Sarah Powers: “New moms all hear the same advice: take it easy on yourself, accept help from friends and family when you can, and (of course) sleep when the baby sleeps! I think many moms go into the postpartum period actually open to this advice and willing to accept help. But somewhere between good intentions and real life, things can get tricky.” Keep an eye on depression during this time as many women go through waves of emotional upheaval.

Offer to Help

Shutterstock.com

Even if they turn down help, step in anyway. Offer to cook meals, clean, or better yet—babysit so new momma can get her hair done or take a drive to let off steam. She will turn you down, so she doesn’t feel like she is a burden. But that is why we’re the pushy type, and will work to make life easier for her. Tell her “nonsense” and move onto some tasks to aide her. “Swallow your pride and accept all offers of help, or ask for it,” pediatrician Cheryl Wu M.D told Parent.com. “In the three months following delivery, your only job should be taking care of the baby and taking care of yourself,” she continued. “Other people should be doing the dishes, bringing you food and so on. The it-takes-a-village attitude is not only good for you, it's good for your child.” For everyone concerned, offer help. This is a message for the new momma--we beg you to take any assistance needed.

Keeping the Faith

Shutterstock.com

Belief is another important aspect for mom, especially if she is a person passionate about God. Encourage her with prayer and a favorite sermon to lift the mood. Create a jar with Scriptures that inspire and that will build faith. Take her out for a prayer tea or breakfast to rebuild confidence by inviting people to come, or watch baby so she can spend quiet time with the Lord. “We can regain our strength through rest, exercise and quiet moments with God,” Focus on the Family shared. “When we take time to refresh, both physically and spiritually, we are better able to meet the demands of motherhood. While you may feel frustrated at times, remember that this season won't last forever. Soon enough, bottles and diapers will simply be a memory. Savor the time you have together.”

Have Fun

As a supporter of mom, you are well aware that there will be a myriad of emotions. Don’t just focus on the baby. Bring flowers, a bottle of wine and put a funny movie on from Netflix. Do your nails and have facials at the home. Celebrate hanging out together, and make the most of it even if laundry is scattered across the floor. “Don’t just focus on the baby. With the attention of everyone so squarely on the baby, sometimes the amazingness of the new mom gets lost in the shuffle. Gifting her with a great pair of button-down PJ’s, a bouquet of flowers, or throwing her a low-key potluck with her best girlfriends can all help her feel appreciated and special,” Mother Magazine shared. They also gave advice on dealing with most conversations being centered on baby! “Be mindful that she might be more interested in discussing breastfeeding, diaper rash, sleep training, and other baby minutia for the first few months than your personal issues. Although, perhaps talking about the happenings in your life might feel like a welcome escape for her, just feel it out.”

Be There

Be a good buddy that takes time to hear her out. Don’t swap stories and take the time by listening to her. Women need each other for emotional support. Many time females can’t receive this from their husbands as they’re wired differently. This is a good time to spend it with other women who can relate to the struggles and the good things associated with parenting. Use active listening said Julia Hogan, a licensed professional counselor. “That must be frustrating/difficult/emotionally taxing." Ask her to elaborate on how she's feeling. Avoid the temptation to problem solve unless she asks for your help. This doesn't mean you can't vent about the goings on in your own life. She wants to know how you're doing, too!” Maybe you both need adults you can talk with. Allow this time for both of you to just chat. Everyone needs someone they can listen to. It takes practice if you’re a talker. Don’t be overly harsh on yourself if this takes time for both sides.