Decreasing Screen Time in Postpartum: Thoughts From Your Therapist Palm Desert

Reducing Screen Time

Reducing screen time during the postpartum period can have several benefits for new moms. It can help improve mental well-being, enhance bonding with the baby, and promote better sleep and overall health. Here are some tips from Your Therapist Palm Desert to decrease screen time as a postpartum mom:

Prioritize Bonding with Your Baby

photo of mother holding her baby and looking at each other in the eyes — Therapist Palm Desert, Lauren Fox, LCSW supports new mothers.

Use the time when your baby is awake and alert to engage in bonding activities such as talking, singing, cuddling, and playing. This quality time is essential for both your baby's development and your emotional connection.

Set Specific Screen-Free Times

Designate certain hours of the day when you will avoid using screens altogether. For example, consider making meal times and the hour before bedtime screen-free zones and leave your screens in a specific part of your home during other parts of your day.

Limit Social Media Use

Social media can be a significant time drain and can sometimes contribute to feelings of inadequacy or comparison. Try to limit your social media use, and be mindful of the emotions it evokes when you do use it.

Establish Screen-Free Bedtime Routine

Create a relaxing bedtime routine that doesn't involve screens. Read a book, practice deep breathing, or meditate to help you unwind before going to sleep.

Find Alternative Activities

Discover other activities that you enjoy and that can help you relax and unwind, such as reading a book, doing gentle exercises like yoga, listening to a guided meditation or spending time in nature.

Involve your Partner or Support System

If you need to take a break from screens but still have tasks to complete or messages to check, involve your partner or support system to help manage those responsibilities. Delegate calling the insurance company (and waiting on hold) or returning messages that you dictate while you feed your baby.

Use Screen Time Intentionally

If you do use screens, try to do so with a purpose. For example, use video calls to connect with family and friends, or watch informative videos related to parenting and self-care. Recognize when you have lost yourself in the scroll of the phone and check in with what you really need…water? food? to stand up and go outside for a moment? to connect with another adult?

Seek Support and Companionship

The postpartum period can be isolating, and screens may sometimes be used as a way to combat loneliness. Reach out to your support network or consider joining local mom groups to connect with others who are going through similar experiences.

Set Realistic Expectations

It's essential to be gentle with yourself during the postpartum period. If you find yourself using screens more than you'd like, don't be too hard on yourself. Recognize that adjusting to new routines and responsibilities takes time, and gradually work towards reducing screen time.

Remember, decreasing screen time is a personal choice, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The key is to find a balance that works for you and allows you to prioritize your well-being and bonding with your baby during this special time.

photo of Therapist Palm Desert, Lauren Fox, LCSW — Therapist Palm Desert, Lauren Fox, LCSW

I hope this blog discussing decreasing screen time in new motherhood was beneficial for you. If you or someone you love is wanting more support in your motherhood journey, reach out to me! We can schedule a 15 minute phone consultation to discuss what is happening for you and explore if more individualized mental health support could be beneficial for you. I would be happy to help get you connected. Feel free to call me at 805-930-9355 for a free 15 minute phone consultation. If you are looking for help with pregnancy, postpartum , pregnancy loss , infertility , birth trauma or hypnotherapy, you can read more about how I can help within this website.

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