FAST DISPATCH
GENEROUS WARRANTIES
HERE FOR YOU
Ever feel like sleep is a long-lost friend you’ll never see again? As a new parent, it can certainly feel that way. The constant demands of a newborn, the interrupted nights, and the sheer exhaustion can make you wonder how you’ll ever make it through.
But here’s the thing: when you take care of yourself (even just a few minutes a day), it benefits your whole family - including your baby. Your wellbeing directly impacts how you show up as a parent, and when you’re feeling a little more refreshed and cared for, everyone in the family reaps the benefits.
It’s no secret that parenthood is hard, especially when running on fumes. The good news is that there are small ways to take care of yourself in the midst of this short but intense season. Here are eight practical tips to help you protect your mental wellbeing when sleep is in short supply.
1. Accept help - and ask for it
Uuugh, we know, we know. Nobody likes asking for help. It’s one of those pieces of advice that’s easy to give but so hard to take, right? But here’s the truth: you don’t need to do it all on your own. Whether it’s asking family to watch the baby while you nap or letting a friend bring over dinner, asking for or accepting help is one of the best things you can do for your wellbeing. And if someone offers to help? Say yes!
Think of it like this: by sharing the load, you’re giving yourself the space to recharge and be a more present, patient parent. Plus, your family and friends want to help - they feel valued and appreciated when they can support you, even in small ways. Chances are, they’ll find as much joy in helping as you do in receiving their help. Remember, parenting isn’t a solo gig - it’s a team effort. Lean on your support network, and don’t hesitate to reach out when you need a hand.
2. Prioritise small breaks
While a full night’s sleep might feel like a distant dream, you can still give your mind and body moments to recharge. Short breaks - even just 5 minutes - can help you reset. Whether it’s stepping outside for some fresh air, sipping a hot cup of coffee, or closing your eyes for a brief meditation, these micro-breaks add up. A few moments of quiet can work wonders for your mental health.
3. Lower your expectations (of yourself)
During these early months, it’s easy to feel pressure to keep up with everything - laundry, cooking, tidying up - but it’s important to acknowledge that some things can wait. Right now, your energy is best spent on the essentials: feeding, cuddling, bonding with your baby and taking care of yourself. Everything else? It can slide a little.
It’s okay if the house isn’t spotless or dinner comes from the freezer for several nights (or weeks) in a row. Be kind to yourself, and let go of the idea that you need to ‘do it all’. In the grand scheme of things, this is just a short season, and it will pass.
4. Prioritise even just 20 minutes of self-care each day
It might sound simple, but taking time to wash your hair or have a shower can make a world of difference to how you feel. When you’re exhausted, even small acts of personal care can help lift your spirits. Freshening up can feel like hitting a reset button, and even if it's just for a few minutes, you’ll feel a little more human and ready to face the day.
5. Move your body
When you're sleep-deprived, the last thing you probably want to do is exercise, but gentle movement can actually help. Going for a short walk around the block or getting out in the fresh air can do wonders for both your body and mind - even more so if you can get a bit of vitamin D as well! A little movement can also make it easier to fall asleep when you do finally get the chance - there’s nothing worse than finally lying down only to find that your mind won’t switch off.
6. Stay connected
Parenting can sometimes feel isolating, especially when you’re struggling with sleep deprivation. Make an effort to connect with others - whether it’s a chat with a fellow parent, a phone call to a friend, or even a visit from someone who ‘gets it’. Sometimes, a simple conversation while you’re folding the washing or preparing a meal can lift your spirits. Sharing your experiences, even in the middle of the chaos, can make you feel less alone.
7. Nourish yourself
When you’re focused on caring for your baby, it’s easy to forget to care for yourself. But nourishing your body with good food and plenty of water is essential when you’re sleep-deprived. Quick, nutritious snacks like nuts, fruit, or yoghurt can keep your energy up, and staying hydrated helps combat the sluggishness that lack of sleep brings. You might not be able to sit down to a full meal in one go, but fueling yourself throughout the day will help you cope better with the challenges.
8. Invest in tools that make life easier
Along with accepting help from others, don’t forget the power of practical tools that can lighten the load. If an automatic bottle steriliser, a sound machine or robot vacuum can buy you some extra peace of mind or precious minutes of rest, maybe consider welcoming them to the team. Think about the everyday tasks that drain your energy the most and see how you can streamline them.
For example, something as simple as a cot mattress that helps your baby sleep safely and comfortably for longer, or a clever nappy bin that makes changing time faster with minimal effort can be the hidden heroes of your nursery. The right products can make a world of difference, giving you more time and headspace to focus on what really matters - being there for your little one and taking care of yourself.
Parenthood, especially in the early stages, can feel overwhelming and relentless. But as hard as it is to believe when you’re in the thick of it, one day this will just be a distant memory - a hazy but precious time you’ll look back on with pride. So hang in there, and don’t lose hope. This stage, though difficult, is temporary.
Feeling alone or like you're not coping? Make the call - there are amazing support services available, including PANDA Australia, Pregnancy, Birth and Baby, Australian Breastfeeding Association, MensLine and more who are here to support new parents exactly like you! There's no shame and no need to do it alone.
As a family business with over three generations of experience, we understand how exhausting those early days can be. We've been there ourselves, and that’s why we design products that not only prioritise the safety and comfort of your baby but are also made with you, the parent, in mind. Our mission has always been to support families like yours because we know the love and effort (and sleepless nights!) that goes into raising a child.
From our family to yours, remember: you’re doing an incredible job, even on the toughest days.
Share with a new parent in your life to encourage them ❤️
Keep reading:
