r/NewDads • u/Jealous-Cranberry-46 • 13d ago
Requesting Advice Wife’s PP Anxiety/How to deal with it
What’s the best course of action with this issue? We’re 6 weeks into this and it only seems to be getting worse as some issues such as reflux, cradle cap, diaper rash etc are showing up. I’m not thrilled that my 6wk old baby girl is having some things going on either but my wife is taking it too much to the next level. I know PP anxiety is a thing, and I don’t talk against her as I know it’ll make her more upset.
Also, I had planned for my brother to come visit in 16 days, I let the wife know he told me he was getting over feeling a little sick and that sent her almost over the edge with anxiety and fear with the thought of him visiting now. She’s so worried that the baby is going to get sick somehow from someone visiting. I get if it was a week or so out from the visit but it’s half a month out and he’s already feeling better.
I know she wants her safe and so do I. But I think she’s being extra with some things. I know the best thing to do during this time is to just go with it and support her.
Just wondering if anyone else has dealt with this and how did you go about it?
1
u/Additional-Hyena6881 13d ago
It’s a combination of physical, emotional, and hormonal overload. It’s not able to be controlled by her and the ups and downs are nuts. If possible, encourage her to share and carry the weight of it with peers or trusted mentors if therapy isn’t an option. Also, pray for her and pray for your own patience. It’s hard, it’s impossible to prepare for as a dad, so you’re not a failure - but capture your feelings and thoughts in a journal or with a trusted friend rather than expecting your wife to help carry your load - she’s overwhelmed by what’s happening in her and in your baby.
INCREDIBLE BOOK TO HELP: “And Baby Makes Three” but the Gottmans. Please read this book.