All parents experience moments of overwhelming stress and exhaustion while caring for a newborn. There are three main stages of handling stress. Agree ahead of time on the language you will use to identify when you are struggling and who your support system will include. Always take a break before you get to the red zone.
- In the GREEN ZONE, your body feels calm. You can experience emotions and evaluate options on how to respond. Here you are able to self-regulate.
- In the ORANGE ZONE, you feel increased tension in your body. It may feel difficult to express your emotions and takes more effort to self-regulate.
- In the RED ZONE, you experience significant tension in your body. You are not in control of your actions or emotions.
Use this worksheet to start the conversation in your household.