How to Deal With Exhaustion With Twins
No one can understand how utterly tiring having twins is until it happens to them. When I first became a mother, it was a difficult adjustment. Still, that was nothing compared to the sheer stress that hit me when the twins came along just a little later. Looking after not one, but two newborns is basically mission impossible. You feel as though your energy is drained before the day’s even begun and you never get the sleep that you need.
If you’re new to the world of twins, welcome! It isn’t going to be easy. Not by a long shot. You will absolutely have to find ways to cope with your exhaustion or you will burn out. So, how can you do it? Well, here are some tips that I’ve learned firsthand. With any luck, they will help you too.
Sleep when they sleep!
You’ve probably heard this mantra before now, but it really does work. The fact of the matter is that babies need a whole load of rest when they’re first born. So, the moment they hit the hay, you need to do the same. This will likely mean that you have to change your sleeping pattern somewhat. Don’t worry… It will be well worth it.
Accept help from your family
There’s no room for pride here. Your family will likely gather around to help you the moment you become the mom of twins. It’s only natural. If that happens, you have to accept their help. You’re a mother, yes, but you can’t handle everything on your own. If your mom offers to watch the little ones, say yes! It’s not rocket science. It’s not a crime, either. You need to get as much rest and space as possible.
Stock up on diapers and food
When you get a chance to hit the stores, make sure that you stock up as much as possible. Living with twins is chaotic, and so you need to make sure that you have everything you need. Who knows when you will get a spare moment to grab things like diapers and baby food again? Stock up as much as you can now so that you don’t need to worry later. You won’t regret it.
Have a day off every week
Okay, I’ll admit that this one can be kind of tricky. If you’re lucky enough to have a family member who will help out or your partner doesn’t mind going it alone for a day, you can do it. Basically, without the R&R you need, you will not be the best mother to your kids. Taking a day off each week isn’t a selfish act; it’s necessary. Allow yourself that little bit of peace on a regular basis and it will make all the difference.
Communicate with your partner
Finally, this last piece of advice is absolutely crucial. You and your partner are going through this together! Yes, you might both be a little snappy or grouchy. Having basically no sleep will do that to anybody, right? You have to make the time to talk to your partner and be realistic about how you’re both feeling.
This is not a war. You’re not against your partner – you are a team and you have to act like it. When times get hard, you will need to lean on them. It’s just that simple. If you two start arguing as well, you will find it ridiculously hard to cope. Don’t put that extra strain on your relationship or the household.
Good luck!
Now, I know it can be hard when you first have twins, but (trust me) you’ve got this. It will be tiring. It will be stressful. You will think you’re losing your mind. Still, when you see the look on your little one’s faces, it will all be worth it. Good luck, you guys!
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Oh wow. This is a great resource for anyone who has twins. I cannot imagine trying to raise twins. I had a hard enough time doing it one at a time!
I can’t imagine raising twins. It’s everything that’s challenging about having a baby but doubled. Of course, mom would be exhausted after that!
Your advice makes a lot of sense! I’d definitely make sure to ask for help if I needed it and stocking up would make the schedule much less hectic.
I can only imagine how exhausting twins would be! These are great tips for not getting overwhelmed.
I was exhausted with just 1! I can’t imagine how tiring 2 would be. I definitely think a good support system would be most helpful, and asking for help would really help mom and dad get a few much needed z’s in!
These are really good tips, even if you’re not having twins! But i give you mamas of multiples props because i don’t know if i could do it.
oh my goodness your children are beautiful. This is such a great resource for parents of twins!
These are awesome tips for twin moms! I can’t imagine how twin moms survive their everyday life! You are such an inspiration to the world of multiple moms!
My good friend takes her son and DILs twins every Mon, Wed., and Fri. after work for a few hours so mom can rest. It’s nice for everyone. 🙂
I watched a reality TV showing a Dad with twins and yes, I know it is really tiring. There are moments he is so exhausted he will just sit and cry.
I know you are doing a great job there, You are amazing 🙂
Wow, talk about a double whammy!
I have a lot of respect for you parents, especially in this situation.
I would definitely say it would be best to be a teammate with your husband!
I had Irish twins, so I don’t know what this is like AT ALL. But I do know what its been like having my girls 10 months apart and thats enough for me. The exhaustion was real with that, these are some great tips!
I’ve never had to deal with twins before! From what I’ve been reading, it’s quite a challenge and I feel for moms of twins! I think these are all great ideas.
Kudos to you. I can barely keep up with one, let alone two of the same age. Great post.
I have rarely dealt with twins, but I could only imagine how difficult it can be at times. Just know it will all be worth it if it isn’t already.
Exhaustion with one baby was horrible, I can’t imagine with 2 to care for! Great tips for new parents!
My youngest was such a handful. I remember the relentless exhaustion. Can’t imagine that times two!
Well since Beyonce announced she is having twins now everyone seem like they wants twins all of a sudden. I think it would be cool but omg the lack of sleep and diaper change…I would feel like I would need a nanny seriously. Hopefully I will have an amazing partner who will help me equally!
These are excellent tips! I remember the sleep deprivation when my kiddies were little.