Navigating COVID with a Newborn

Finding Postpartum Support During COVID

Let's first acknowledge that these are uncertain times with the COVID pandemic.

Parenthood brings so many unexpected challenges and COVID causes us more.  You are not alone.

Being a new parent during the pandemic is difficult.

Having a new baby comes with many emotions and fears.

New parents can feel isolated in the best of times. Being forced to stay home and limit or not allow visitors can make the transition even more isolating.Finding ways to stay connected and find support is important more now than ever.

While it is necessary to avoid many indoor public space, limit visitors in your home and maintain a social distance, there are ways you can stay connected. 

Below are some ways you stay connected to others and resources as you navigate the postpartum during COVID times.

Ways to Stay Connected With Others

Online coffee dates with friends via Zoom or FaceTime

While not quite the same as an in-person coffee, it’s the next best thing to stay connected and safe during COVID.

Just being able to see and interact with a friend is a mood lifter.

Bonus is you don’t have to get dressed, drive somewhere or pay $5 for a cup of coffee!

Online support groups for moms

There are a surprising amount of online support groups and services for new moms in Cleveland.

One-on-one visits with friends while social distancing

You can have a friend come over and sit on a blank/chair at least 6ft away in your yard.

Depending on your comfort level, you could have a friend over in your home that has been committed to social distancing and masks.

Walks

Getting out for a short (or long) walk will give you some sun, fresh air, exercise and a chance to see others from a safe distance.

Just saying “hello” and a smile with a stranger can be uplifting.

Parks & the Beach

A drive to a park or the beach gets you out and a drive with a destination.

You can get in a walk, take a blanket for a picnic or dip your toes in the water.

Either option can be done mask-free and socially distancing.

Just getting out for a drive, fresh air and a change of scenery can be just what you needed.

navigating COVID with a newborn

Ways to Limit Exposure

Grocery Delivery

Realizing that this is an expense, depending on the company, may still be worth the piece of mind.Some services like Shipt offer store pick up.They will shop for you, meet you in the parking lot and you can skip the expense of delivery.

Friends and family always want to know how they can help new parents.Ask them to do the shopping for you!

Produce Delivery

There are CSAs as well as services that offer weekly, bi-weekly or monthly deliveries of fresh produce. Many times we can limit our trips to the store by buying in bulk, bit we always seem to run out of produce the quickest.The produce delivery businesses are locally sourced, reasonable prices and keep you from having to run out for fresh produce.

Online or Private In-Home Classes

Many wellness coaches, yoga studios, hospitals and birth workers are offering virtual classes.Some will still do private, in home as well.You get the benefits of the class in the safety of your home.

Telehealth

During COVID Many doctor appointments can be done virtually.Make sure to ask when scheduling if you can do a virtual appointment.

Friends and Family Run Errands

Friends and families are always looking for ways to help new parents.Having them pick up items you may need from the store or restaurant, would be a tangible way they can help and keep your exposure down.

Online Ordering

Not that I probably need to tell you this, but online retailers are invaluable now.Amazon is the first that usually comes to mind.Keep in mind that many local small businesses have gone online with delivery and curb pick up options as well.

Finding Mental Health Support

Therapy

Mental health therapy is beneficial in the best of time, so as we navigate a world with COVID, therapy can be extremely helpful.New parent struggles are very real.Having a newborn can bring up many emotions and feelings of isolation. Finding a mental health therapist that specializes in postpartum families is another way to find support and ways to cope. Many are offering virtual support as well.

Support GroupsThere are also online mental health support groups for new moms as well that are free.  They are generally run by therapist or moms that have dealt with mental health issues postpartum.  Wishing you the BEST on your parenthood journey!The Nurtured Foundation Team