STRESS of the NICU Part 2

Know that your NICU staff are there to serve you, as well as your baby. Please don’t be afraid to ask questions, as many times as you need to hear some concept explained. In even the most fertile (and relaxed) environments, a learner requires frequent repetition in order to assimilate new information. Numerous sleep deprivation studies connect lack of sleep with spotty incorporation and performance on all levels. Recall that sleep deprivation has been wielded as a means of torture for centuries. Confusion, loss of appetite, immune system compromise and more, are common side-effects.

As one who also endured a nightmarish first few weeks after baby’s arrival, my advice is to take care of yourself and let NICU take care of the baby. New NICU parents rarely relax enough to sleep or eat, so this is the time to call in the troops and ask for help. When someone asks ,”Is there’s anything I can do to help?” name a day of the week; then say “call me.” By the time they call, you’ll have thought of at least one errand or some task that needs tending. This gives you a chance to include as many folks in your support network as possible. Allow others to play even a small part. (Ask any actor and they’ll tell you: There are no small parts!) Allow that friend to take your shoes to get reheeled, to pick up the dry-cleaning, to mop your kitchen floor…

Allow others to share the blessing. Soon enough, you’ll have your turn to pay it forward.