DEAR HARRIETTE: As a new mom to my precious 3-month-old, I'm experiencing a whirlwind of emotions, from joy to an overwhelming sense of isolation and loneliness. While I adore my baby and cherish these early moments, I can’t help but miss my old social life and the freedom I used to enjoy. It feels like my friends have drifted away, caught up in their own busy lives, leaving me feeling disconnected.
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When I tried to share my feelings with my sister, who has been married for 10 years without children, she misinterpreted my struggle. She said all sorts of things, suggesting that I’m ungrateful for the blessing of my baby and I do not deserve her. It hurts deeply because I feel like my feelings are not valid. I have no one else to ask for advice on how to fix these feelings to make them right. Any guidance you can provide would be immensely helpful. -- New Mom Blues
DEAR NEW MOM BLUES: Your sister may have underlying feelings of jealousy because she has not had a child. She clearly doesn’t understand your position, and she lashed out based on her experience. You need to find like-minded people to talk to about your current situation. Consider a support group for new moms -- online or in-person -- where moms with similar challenges come together to share their wisdom and insights.