ABSTRACT
New mothers who are struggling with mood changes often need help in learning ways to incorporate self-care into their busy lives. People often think of self-care as only grand gestures like getting massages. But it is also important to recognize the small things we do for our mental wellness as falling under the umbrella of self-care too. The first part of Chapter 5 is broken down into three levels of self-care: “just surviving” (i.e. showering, getting dressed, eating), “making it work” (i.e. delegating to others, creating a loose schedule), and “rocking it” (i.e. date nights, time to self). Under each level of care are examples and a “MOM” (Minute of Me) information box which includes a suggestion for a skill that only takes one minute. Readers are prompted to identify barriers in achieving self-care goals and are given strategies to overcome these barriers. The importance of sleep hygiene and sunlight exposure are highlighted. Additionally, women are reminded that this is a season in their lives for receiving care. Expanding their village is a way of practicing self-care. Ideas are provided for outsourcing help and problem solving any obstacles to getting them that help.
