I read an article yesterday about the fact that regular postpartum care in the US is laughably incomplete. So it's good that you're looking ahead now, even if it's scary, and creating plans for just in case. I hope you don't have to use any of them, and can come back to your delight and happiness soon.
I hope you never go through this once the baby comes, but it helps to be prepared just in case.
Depression can take many forms, and so it's also good to be prepared for types you haven't experience before-- such as feeling overwhelmed (reduced coping skills) or feeling angry.
I saw some of the earlier advice, and I would add that if you find breastfeeding isn't working for you, cut yourself some slack. And if you run into mothers who you feel judge you (because competitive Mom-ism is a thing, and it's ugly), look for a different group of mothers. There will be other parents you "gel" with, but you might have to look around a bit. It does help!
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Depression can take many forms, and so it's also good to be prepared for types you haven't experience before-- such as feeling overwhelmed (reduced coping skills) or feeling angry.
I saw some of the earlier advice, and I would add that if you find breastfeeding isn't working for you, cut yourself some slack. And if you run into mothers who you feel judge you (because competitive Mom-ism is a thing, and it's ugly), look for a different group of mothers. There will be other parents you "gel" with, but you might have to look around a bit. It does help!
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Here's the thing: you're being proactive. You've got a plan in place. You've informed other people. You won't be alone, and you don't have to suffer.
Best of luck. This is a solid piece, and you really captured that sense of fear.
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