Having a baby can be one of the most exciting times of your life. However, it can also be one of the most stressful. It may be nothing like you ever predicted. Until you experience it, you never how what it really feels like to make that huge transition. One moment you’re thinking of your own wellbeing and the next, you have a little person you’re entirely responsible for,

There are so many stresses that come alongside being a new parent, that include worrying about the baby, managing finances and the change in relationships, to the point where you may feel completely overwhelmed.

Here are some key tips on coping with stress as a new parent.

#1 Go for a walk
Caring for a new baby 24/7 can take its toll on your mental health, so every so often, why not go for a walk to stretch your legs and clear your mind? Taking your baby out in his/her stroller is often a great method to soothe them when they’re unsettled.

Being stuck indoors for long periods of time without seeing others can make new mums feel depressed and isolated. It’s for this reason why getting a change of scenery is so crucial; it can lift your mood and help you socialize with others in the local community. You never know who you may meet while out and about – your newborn is sure to gain the attention of passers-by!

#2 Take vitamins
If you constantly feel overwhelmed as a new parent, there’s a high likelihood you’re missing out on essential nutrients. B vitamins have been proven to enhance your mood naturally.

Unlike other vitamins, we don’t store B vitamins in our bodies, and they’re flushed out of the system when they’re not used. Although you can derive these vitamins from food, you may not be getting enough, which is causing you to feel more stressed than usual. Try taking vitamin supplements as an alternative from recommended health companies such as Health Monthly.

#3 Make time for your partner
Relationships can suffer when a newborn comes into the mix, so it’s important you and your partner make time for each other on occasion. You’re bound to both be very tired at the end of a long day, so you don’t have to do anything too extravagant. It could be as simple as snuggling in front of the TV and asking the grandparents to babysit just one night a week to give you some much-needed quality time together.

#4 Open up about how you’re feeling
New mums can find the transition to parenting extremely difficult. Although they feel an overriding sense of joy at their new arrival, it’s normal to feel as though the world is closing in on them due to their entire focus being shifted to one individual.

Don’t bottle up your feelings; talk to someone. You and your partner must communicate about how you can support each other while speaking with outsiders such as friends or a therapist will allow you to see the bigger picture.