Your
baby won't stop crying and you just want to pull your hair out!
What do you do?
All
babies cry and can take it's toll on you, keeping your cool can
be sometimes difficult. The important thing is that you stay
calm.
When nothing you do soothes your crying baby, you may
feel anxious. What if there's something wrong and you miss
it completely? What if you lose control? Take heart
in your ability to care for your baby and to recognize when
you're reaching the end of your rope.
It's tough to listen to your baby cry. First, cover
the basics. A crying baby might simply need to be fed,
burped or changed. Maybe it's time for a nap, a change in
position or a session in the rocking chair. Or perhaps
your crying baby needs a little more, or a little less
attention. Also look for signs of illness, such as fever,
vomiting, or changes in eating or sleeping patterns.
Things you can do to help you relieve the stress of a crying
baby:
Keep your perspective.
You're not failing your baby or being lazy if you
can't stop a crying spell. Sometimes babies simply
need to cry.
Slow down.
Take a deep breath and count to 10. Repeat a
calm word or phrase, such as, 'Take it easy.'
Use your imagination.
Take your mind off the crying by picturing yourself
in a calm, relaxing place. Play soothing music in
the background.
Take a break.
If you're alone, put your baby in a safe place, such
as the crib or bassinet. Let your baby cry
while you take a few minutes to regroup in another
room.
Ask for help.
Let your spouse or another loved one take over for a
while. Take advantage of babysitting offers
from friends, neighbors or other close contacts.
Express your emotions.
When you're getting frustrated, speak up.
Saying the words out loud, either to yourself or to
an understanding friend or loved one can help ease
the tension.
Take a walk.
Put your baby in the stroller and take a brisk walk.
The exertion may take your mind off the tears.
If it's too cold for an outdoor stroll, walk laps in
a local shopping mall or other indoor spot.
You might even buckle the baby into his or her car
seat and take a short drive.
Sleep when your baby sleeps.
Sleep deprivation may only make it harder to cope
with a crying baby.
Recognize your limits.
If you're worried about your ability to cope with a
crying baby, contact your doctor, a local crisis
intervention service or a mental health help line
for support. Post a crisis number on the
refrigerator or in another visible spot.
When
your baby is crying and your finding it difficult to calm them
down you may try anything. But remember to treat your baby
gently.
Your
baby won't stop crying and you just want to pull your hair out!
What do you do?
The
