Self-help tips to support you becoming a new parent

Becoming a new parent can be an overwhelming experience. Be mindful of how you’re feeling and take time to look after yourself and your needs. Here are some useful self-help tips to support you becoming a new parent:

Build a support network

Making connections and building friendships with other new parents can be reassuring. You may find comfort in sharing your feelings and experiences with other parents that have been through the same.

You will find that you’re not alone and many others will be experiencing similar anxieties and frustrations. This can help you gain confidence as a parent to be or as a new parent.

Attend a local parent and baby group

Baby groups are a great way to ease yourself into the community, especially if you’re nervous about attending in the beginning or being around new people. You could attend planned groups such as baby massage, pram walks or singing groups for parents and babies.

There are many activities and groups across North Wales. You can ask your Health Visitor for further information about groups in your local area or see the following links:

There are local antenatal groups available for those expecting a baby. Ask you Midwife or GP for more information of groups available within your area.

The thought of breastfeeding your baby whilst out and about might feel a little daunting at first but a little planning and preparation can make you feel more confident. The Breastfeeding Welcome scheme highlights premises across North Wales that actively encourage and support women to breastfeed.

Support from your Health Visitor

Health Visitors are trained to recognise and support maternal mental health difficulties. You are the best judge of your feelings and whether these are normal to you.

Tell your midwife, health visitor or doctor how you feel. Remember that healthcare professionals won’t judge you. They will focus on helping you find the right treatment and support.

Taking care of yourself

We understand how busy it can be during your pregnancy or once your baby is born. It is important you look after yourself and your mental wellbeing. Try adding the following tips into your routine:

Keep active

Activities such as walking can also encourage social interactions and boost overall mental health. This can be a walk with the pram, gentle pilates or yoga at home. Physical activity can help boost your endorphins and provide you with more energy. Find out more information about the benefits of being active.

Coping with tiredness

Some parents can experience sleepless nights with their baby, which can make it difficult to get a good night sleep. Making time to rest whenever you get the chance can make a difference.

Try taking naps during the day when your baby is sleeping. You could also ask your partner, friend or family to help feed your baby during the night.

The early days of being a parent can be tricky as you and your baby are getting over the birth. If you are struggling to breastfeed your baby, remember it is a skill that needs to be learnt by the both of you. Like most things you can’t expect to get it right straight away.

Make time to relax

It is important to allow yourself some time to do things that make you feel good.

The Five Ways to Wellbeing are simple steps we can take to look after our mental health and wellbeing.

Reflect on what really helps you unwind. Whether it’s reading a book, watching the television, doing some craft, some sort of physical activity or having a bath - allow yourself some time and space to do this.

Eating well as a new mum

Eating well is important for you. It will help you recover from the birth and give you the energy to care for your new baby. Find out more information about eating well as a new mum in the Public Health Wales digital book.

Mental health and wellbeing

It’s only natural that most new parents will feel some sort of anxiety and mixed feelings during the first few weeks as you adapt to your new roles. However, if this becomes constant and is affecting daily life, then you, your partner, friend or family member may need some extra support and help.