There’s no question that the coronavirus pandemic has affected the lives of everyone. No matter how old you are, where you live, or what you do for a living.
While most people tend to think about the elderly since this is the group that is being more affected by COVID-19, the truth is mums all over the world are also struggling. It’s no different where I live in Portugal.
A Challenging Time for Moms
Motherhood is never a breeze, and especially for new moms inducted into this new experience right smack in the middle of a global catastrophe. Just think about the new mothers that have to deliver their baby in the middle of this pandemic; saying that it’s “challenging” is an understatement.
For starters, there is always the fear of getting infected. After all, you need to go to the hospital or the pediatrician. Besides, with hospitals near their limits, it’s difficult not to think about doctors and nurses who are so tired that they can easily make a mistake. Fortunately, these cases have been incredibly rare in Portugal. Hospitals have been being able to maintain their professional standards, with doctors, nurses and administrative staff doing their best. So we have not had any mishaps or Covid-related mishaps in thre maternity and pediatric wards.
The reality is that due to COVID-19, many moms were simply fired while others started working from home. Others decided to simply become a stay-at-home mum.
No matter the path you choose (or was chosen for you), it isn’t easy to stay at home with a child. Yes, there are always great and memorable moments. But there are also moments of despair where we just need to get out and get some fresh air. We need to talk to other adults, talk about other things than just our babies. We need to feel we are still a woman and not just a mom. But this pandemic doesn’t allow us to do this. After all, we need to be careful not only for us but also (and mainly) for our newborn.
While using Zoom or Microsoft Teams is not the same thing as talking to someone in person, it is definitely safer. As a mom, you need to be at your best so you can take good care of your child. So, just ask your partner to handle the baby for a few hours. Just get some rest, talk to a friend, read a book, paint or do something you really like, focusing on yourself for that period, something that refreshes and energizes you.
Start with Something Simple
Motherhood is incredible but you need to be at your best to actually enjoy it. It is not easy to stay at home alone with a baby. Sometimes, a simple walk at the park helps them calm down. So, while there may be some restrictions in your area, just pick a time of the day when most people are at home or work, and go for a walk. Take your beautiful newborn and appreciate this time together. You can’t imagine how a simple 10 or 15 minutes walk can make wonders to both.
I know, easier said than done. But we all have to try, because the age-old adage holds true, ” a happy mummy makes for a happy home”.
