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Emotional support

 

All expectant parents hope that their babies will be healthy. Yet sometimes problems may arise that require your baby to be admitted to the Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or Special care baby unit (SCBU).

 

 

Having a baby admitted to the NICU or to the SCBU is very stressful for parents and can produce a wide range of powerful emotions. The uncertainty, the highs and lows, and the decisions all take their toll, emotionally and physically. Parents have described the experience as scary, frightening, overwhelming, and helpless and lots more. It is normal to have difficult feelings whilst being in the NICU or SCBU as a parent.

 

Remember in the middle of all this, although it might not be what you had in mind, you have given birth to your baby and you are allowed to be congratulated and to enjoy the moment. As you face and learn to cope with your painful feelings, you will be better able to get to know and love your baby and experience the joy of new parenthood.

 

Some parents find that support from family and friends can help, while some parents may find it easier to talk about their feelings and worries to someone who does not know them:-

 

Psychological support

 

If you would like to ask the nurse looking after your baby to help you meet the unit's psychological support person. You may be glad that you did as it will help you now and later.

 

> Psychological support

 

 

Other parents

 

Discussing your feelings with current parents on the NICU and the SCBU can help. These parents may share many of your feelings and struggles. It's helpful to be surrounded by others who understand what you're going through.

 

BLISS the premature baby charity has a shared experience helpline register. This is a network of parent volunteers whose babies have been in neonatal units and are able to offer telephone support to other parents in similar situations.

 

> Families journeys

 

> Premrose Parents Support Group

 

Spiritual support

 

It might be helpful for you to reflect and lean on your personal spiritual perspective. You may find comfort speaking with a pastor, priest, rabbi, minister or imam. Prayer, meditation or quiet reflection may help you find emotional strength and hope that can guide you through this challenging time.

 

> Chaplaincy

 

 

Establish a routine

 

Find a way to balance work, home life and visiting the hospital. Allow yourself to leave your baby's side when you feel comfortable doing so. Your baby needs you, but it's also important to have time to yourself, with your partner and with your other children. Also take time to do things you enjoy, such as exercise.

 

 

Keep a journal

 

Expressing your feelings on paper can help you cope with and move through them. A journal may also help strengthen your hope and patience, by reminding you how far you and your baby have come.

 

Having a baby in the neonatal unit or the special care unit can be a very stressful and challenging experience. Looking after yourself will help you and will help you to look after your baby, each other and any other children you may have.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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