Babies are not the only ones who get separation anxiety

I am sure all parents go through this, I know I cannot be alone feeling this separation anxiety. #abandonment #stress #anxious #anxiety #separationanxiety #babies #breastfeeding That first time is always the worst when you have to leave your baby with a stranger, daycare, or even relative for the first time. It is not easy let me tell you.

My daughter is a part of me, literally. I created her tiny and beautiful body, her eyes, nose, chunky legs, contagious smile, all inside me. I have a strong connection with her. I love her with all of my heart, and I feel this heavy weight on my shoulders when she is not feeling well just as I feel so happy and light when she is laughing. She is more important than the world itself to me.

Leaving her can be strange. Of course at times I need my own time, I need to do things I love, and follow my dreams, have my own hobbies and interests aside from being a mother. I am not talking about leaving for a couple of hours. Even though that stage is no easier. I am talking about leaving overnight, or for the entire day when you have time to think about her. When you drive yourself crazy wondering if she is alright, if she is eating enough, if she is sleeping well, every possible thought racing through your mind.

If you feel like this you are not alone! There are many, many, mothers and fathers in the same position. I cannot stress it enough that you do not even need to be her biological parent to feel this separation anxiety, you do not need to have carried her in your stomach or delivered her.

People often think that fathers do not experience this as tough and as strong as mothers. Completely false. I watched my soon-to-be husband go through the exact same feelings I am going through right now, and he had to do it when she was a newborn, 4 months, 6 months and so on. He definitely had it worse. Now, as I sit here writing this, as I am supposed to be taking some time for "me" all I can think about is when can I be with my baby again. It is primal, it is instincts. We are like mama bears and they are our cubs, ours to protect, love and nurture.

Although it is hard to leave her side, each time it will get easier and easier. For the both of you. And although you may not want it she will get older and start to be more independent. Being away from your daughter or son is necessary in order to be able to care for them, whether it is because you are going back to work, taking some time for yourself, going back to school. It is for the best. Never feel guilty for not being with your child all the time. It will teach them necessary skills for their life. It will teach them about themselves and how to self soothe.

I would love for parents to reach out to me and share their experiences of separation anxiety with me!