Having a newborn inevitably means less sleep and lots more to do, unless you have help. And if you’re alreadyparentingan older child, it can push you to breaking point. When one woman split from the father of her second child soon after givingbirth, she found herself unable to cope with the demands of motherhood and life.

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Woman yawning, holding baby, looking tired at desk; illustrating tiredness from new baby.

Image credits:stocky01 / Freepik (not the actual photo)

When one woman broke up with the father of her newborn, she called another ex to help, much to the dismay of his wife

Text discussing husband’s ex’s new baby and its impact on current relationship dynamics.

Text image discussing a woman’s issues with husband’s ex needing help due to her new baby.

Text discussing a woman’s frustration with her husband’s ex being tired due to her new baby.

Text image focusing on a woman expressing her thoughts about her husband’s ex and parenting responsibilities.

Text message addressing husband’s ex’s newborn baby issues and related responsibilities.

Woman on phone looking concerned in a modern living room.

Image credits:shurkin_son / Freepik (not the actual photo)

Text expressing someone’s opinion on declining help, mentioning child’s father.

Text about woman’s relationship issues with husband’s ex and her new baby.

Image credits:purplejeansandbiscoff

There are options for single moms who find themselves unable to cope with all that life throws at them

Trying to heal from birth and a break-up while doing everything else could get particularly overwhelming. But there are options available if you need help.

Instead of constantly making trips to the store for essentials like diapers, wipes and formula, consider buying these things in bulk. That means you’ll have less chance of running out of them, and you’ll save yourself some time and stress. The same goes for meal prepping and making dinners in advance. Don’t beat yourself up if you buy a few frozen meals to avoid having to cook.

Woman looking frustrated while sitting on a bed with a crying toddler, highlighting exhaustion and family dynamics.

Image credits:alexgrash / Freepik (not the actual photo)

Find out if there’s a lift club to or from school for your older child, and if so, consider making use of it. While you’re at it, why not reach out to a few of your child’s friends’ parents to set up play dates, or even just ask for support?

If you can afford it, a nanny or even an overnight newborn specialist might be a good choice. They’ll be able to step in when needed so that you can get some much-needed sleep.

According to “What To Expect”, these professionals don’t come cheap: anywhere from $160 to $360 a night, or $20 to $45 per hour, depending on various factors like your location, their credentials and experience, and how many babies you have. But they’re apparently worth every penny.

Most importantly, don’t suffer in silence. And don’t be scared to ask for help. Friends and family might be more understanding and willing than you think. There are many support groups for single moms. You are not alone. But if you find yourself buckling under the pressure, and yourmental healthis at risk, please seek professional help from a qualified therapist.

Text exchange about husband’s ex and new baby, highlighting relationship dynamics and responsibility challenges.

Text post about a woman’s perspective on her husband’s ex dealing with a new baby.

Many felt the wife shouldn’t have to buy nappies and groceries, and advised her to only help with “reasonable” requests

Text discussing cut her some slack due to new baby challenges.

Comment discussing if husband’s ex and baby issues are relevant, mentions buying nappies and taking DSC extra days.

Text discussing husband’s ex being tired due to a new baby and how it’s not someone else’s responsibility to help.

Text from forum discussing husband’s ex and her new baby issues.

Online comment discussing husband’s ex, mentioning her struggles with a new baby.

Comment about husband’s ex being tired and relationship issues discussed in text.

Text from a user, InterIgnis, saying not your problem and warning about growing resentful.

Comment discussing husband’s ex being tired with new baby and custody arrangements.

Text image discussing husband’s responsibilities toward his kids, mentioning challenges faced by a mother with a new baby.

Comment discussing woman offering flexibility in helping husband’s ex with new baby.

“Put your compassionate hat on and suck it up”: some felt the woman was being unreasonable

Text comment on a forum about empathy towards a tired new mother.

Comment by Roselilly36 about supporting a tired new mother.

Text screenshot discussing a blended family, addressing new baby challenges.

Text from user “PrimalLass” suggesting help with new baby.

Text from a user named PrimalLass about helping a new mum with a baby, even if it’s a neighbor.

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