Back from Maternity Leave: Tips to Reduce Stress

Stress and anxiety can plague moms who return to work from their maternity leave. From weeks and months of only caring for their babies, they have to throw in their career – and the time and effort it entails – back into their routine. Between caring for a newborn and holding a job, working mothers have a lot on their plates. If you are in the same situation, here are some tips that can help you plan your approach without sacrificing either role.

Before diving back into the workforce:

• Let go of the guilt. A lot of working mothers experience emotional turmoil when two of their interests – caring for their baby and working – come into conflict. Keep in mind that working does not make you a bad mom. You might have to spend a few late nights at work but remind yourself that you are doing this for your child and your family.

• Go for dependable child care. Find a competent babysitter or child care service for your child. Knowing that your child is safe and healthy in the hands of competent caregiver and stimulating environment can reduce the stress and worry that you may feel.

• Get your employer's help. Before getting back to work, schedule an appointment with your boss to discuss matters pertinent to your maternity. Ask about flexible hours, telecommuting, and other options that can lessen the conflict between your family life and career. If you intend to continue breastfeeding, ask your employer to help you find a private room for pumping.

• It might also help to schedule your return later in the workweek to give yourself time to adjust to your new schedule of being a mom and an employee. It also has the added benefit of making your first week back to work shorter.

While working:

• Get organized. Make a daily to-do list. You might divide the list into tasks for work and tasks for home, or tasks for you and tasks for your partner. Identify what you need to do, what can wait — and what you can skip entirely.

• Stay connected. Plan a daily phone call to your baby's caregiver to find out how your baby's doing. Place a favorite photo of your baby on your desk or in your work area. Set aside time after work to reconnect with your baby.

• Make backup plans. Know what you'll do if your baby is sick or your baby's caregiver is unavailable on a workday – whether it's taking a sick day yourself or calling a friend or loved one to care for your baby.

• Honor your commitment to breastfeeding. Bring your breast pump, containers for expressed milk, an insulated bag and ice packs to work. Keep a stash of breast pads and extra blouses handy, in case your breasts leak.

• Nurture your own well-being. Relax in the tub after you put the baby to bed, or unwind with a favorite book or soft music. Cut down on any unnecessary commitments. Pick a reasonable bedtime, and stick with it. On weekends, sleep when your baby sleeps.

Summary:

Stress and anxiety can plague working mothers more than the usual employees especially if their two interests – motherhood and work – come into conflict. Read on for tips on reducing stress especially if you are just coming back to work from your maternity leave.

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Kristine Anne Gonzaga is a content writer and researcher who specializes in health topics and health-related issues. She delights in finding tips and ideas on simple and practical healthcare and sharing them through her writing.