Being a new mom can be lonely

Being a new mother can be lonely, especially during those early months when it feels like your only constant companion is a newborn who spends most of their time sleeping, eating, and crying. You may never be alone, but that doesn’t mean you won’t feel alone sometimes. It can feel like a whole world is dependent on you because, in some ways, it is. You’re the center of your little one’s world at that age, and that’s a huge responsibility.

Now, imagine that feeling of loneliness, but you’re on a military base in Alaska, just about as far away from your family and friends as you can possibly get without a rocket to the moon. That’s the challenge that new moms Amelia and Katie Fish are facing. Amelia, a civil engineer in the Air Force, and Katie, a teacher, recently celebrated their second anniversary, and in June, they welcomed their son Hudson home after a pregnancy with several complications.

When we first spoke, the expectant moms were eager for that initial skin-to-skin bonding and for the chance to compare his earth-side personality to the karate-kicking kid they saw in ultrasounds and dopplers. However, they were also experiencing the challenge of distance from loved ones who could offer support as they navigated pregnancy, delivery, and even planning for childcare once the two return to their respective careers.

Here’s Katie’s top four tips for military families expecting a new baby, but this wisdom is just as true for any new mom.

Find your people

“I highly recommend finding ‘your people’ no matter where you are located or how long you have been there. It’s never too late to start meeting people. Connect with other military families, people you may work with, neighbors, and members of your community.”

Create community

“Join social media groups for military parents both for your specific installation and the armed forces. It’s especially helpful for creating community amongst others with shared experiences, navigating pregnancy, parenthood, and Tricare.”

Plan ahead

“Sign up early for childcare if needed. The waitlists can be long for Child Development Centers both on the installation and for recommended providers off base as well.”

Accept help

“Military families are often resilient and independent due to the nature of our lifestyle. Don’t be afraid to accept help from others. Having a support system is such a blessing.”

At Milk N Mamas Baby, we’re moms as well as experts in breastfeeding and pumping, and we’ve been there. We understand how lonely and stressful the challenges of being a new mom can be, and we hope that our posts offer you a little encouragement and community. We’re also here if you’ve got questions about breastfeeding, pumping, and how to get more comfortable with both. If you’re a military mom, let us help you navigate Tricare breast pumps. Reach out to us if you’ve got questions or concerns.