7 ways to de-stress

Pregnant and parenting individuals go through a lot of changes. These changes can be physically and mentally challenging. Parents should be able to take care of their children and also take care of their mental health. There are a variety of different coping mechanisms that parents can utilize to manage their stress.

Some coping mechanisms are:

1. Self-care

Everyone needs to take some time to themselves so they can feel good and recharge. Some forms of self-care are meditation, yoga, prayer, journaling, taking a bath, getting a massage, or any activity that makes you feel good about yourself.

2. Exercise

Exercising daily can help the body release chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins can make the body feel less pain. Exercise can decrease stress because there is a shift of focus from the mind to the exercises being done. Also, it helps with overall health and can be a fun activity.

3. Sleep:

If you have support, try to find a set time every day to get some sleep. If that is not possible try to sleep when the baby sleeps. Do not feel guilty about leaving baby in the care of someone you trust so you can get some rest. In order to best care for your baby you need to recharge.

4. Therapy

Thoughts and emotions build up over time and make perinatal mood disorders worse. Talking about these things with a mental health professional can help you understand where the emotions come from and manage them.

Reaching out to your family/friends

Call someone or get together with a friend or relative to enjoy some time talking about things that are important and enjoyable to you.

1. Go for a walk

While you might not count it as exercise, even just getting out and into the fresh air for a short walk will give you a boost.

2. Accept help

Now is the time to accept every form of help – from the ninth month of pregnancy through the first six postpartum months, especially. This includes food, help with chores, and childcare. You can’t do everything yourself. You also should practice asking your partner or family for help. Learning to voice your needs and be specific is important.