a) New Mom, big step & change in life.
i) Elaine's behavior is changing - just when Michelle adjusted to her sleeping, she is now waking up at night.
ii) Baby has stopped taking bottles - While at work Michelle feels guilt knowing her baby is at home hungry.
iii) More time getting ready in am - 1.5 hrs more.
b) Stress being a wife - husband has new job.
i) More job responsibilities at work for husband.
ii) Works additional hours at home.
iii) More difficult for husband.
c) Grad student - thesis hanging over her head.
i) Works over 40 hours between office & home.
ii) Owes boss over 100 hours due to maternity leave.
iii) Little spare time to do things she used to enjoy.
d) Recent events - taking baby to doctor - baby cried whole time - wanted mom.
i) Had to take rest of day just holding her .
ii) Vacation planning - 17 hr drive to grand parents will require many stops.
iii) Vacation in June to Hilton Head - flying & know how babies can be very fussy.
e) Friends - don't visit as much.
i) Feels isolated - especially with friends who don't have kids.
ii) Friend Kendra & her swap kids at times - but it makes her tired caring for hers & a 10 month old toddler.
iii) Stress from constantly having to protect her child - toddler constantly wants to poke baby's eyes & pull her fingers off.
II) Coping:.
a) New mom - she realizes that this would be a great adjustment. It is the most exciting time in her life. To help with the stress and finish her studies, her daughter stays with her step-mom. This allows Michelle to still continue in her life and pursue a career. She also gets an occasional physical break by splitting babysitting with her friend Kendra. .
b) Definite goals - Michelle is planning on finishing her thesis in the next four to six weeks. Completing the thesis is one of her biggest life challenges. Also, she is looking forward to her two vacations. While they will also involve some stressors, she is looking forward to the trips and views them as relaxation.
