UPSET THAT MY PARENTS CAN’T HOLD NEW BABY

Dear Coleen

I had a baby three weeks ago and, obviously, I haven’t been able to see my parents yet and it’s really getting to me. I miss my mum so much, even though we keep in touch all the time and I’ve been sending photos and videos of the baby. But it’s not the same and I feel quite tearful about things.

It’s hard for my mum, too, as this is her first grandchild. I’ve also been worrying that my baby won’t have such a strong bond with my parents as they’ve missed out on this time.

I’d love your advice.

Coleen says

Firstly, don’t worry about the bond between your baby and your parents. Look at all the families who adopt and also grandparents who live far from their grandchildren and don’t get to see them often. Love grows and that bond will develop.

This is a tough situation for new parents, but it’s out of your hands so my advice would be to stay positive, focus on this special time with your baby and realise the situation won’t last forever.

And I’m sure that over the coming weeks, you’ll be able to have more normal contact as restrictions are lifted.

In the meantime, it’s important to look after yourself and your own emotional health.

As a new mum, it’s natural to feel up and down, vulnerable and tearful. I remember crying for no reason whatsoever.

Share how you feel with your partner – simply acknowledging how you feel will help to lift the burden.

And just think how amazing it’ll be when you do get to introduce your baby to your parents – that’s something to look forward to.