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If you're about to become a new mother, it's likely that you will be filled with joy and hope at all the future holds. But for many, the arrival of a first baby can also be a stressful time. Feeling overwhelmed by the huge responsibility of caring for another life and worrying if you're doing everything right is only natural. So, how can you make it through the first few weeks and months with the minimum of stress?

• Simplify: Accept that you cannot go at your usual pace and do everything. When you start to feel stressed, don't put yourself under the pressure of taking on unnecessary tasks. The focus should be on looking after the baby and yourself, sleeping when the baby sleeps - get used to grabbing some sleep when you can - and making sure you get enough to eat too.
  

• Organise: Set out your home for maximum comfort and convenience. Forget what the house will look like to visitors - if you need a changing mat in the living room, then set it up. You will get your home back to normal in a matter of months, but in the meantime make it work for you with everything you need close to hand.

• Delegate: You are not super-human. Mere mortals need to know that they can and should ask for help. If you have a partner, ask them to take on set tasks such as preparing breakfast while you shower, or cleaning the bathroom. You could also maybe ask family members, friends and trusted neighbours for help cooking meals, shopping, and with any emergencies which come up.
  

• Retreat: Learning to say ‘no’ to outside pressures and commitments can be tough but can go a very long way to reducing your anxiety. Not up to attending a friend's dinner party, or baking for that event you promised to support? Pulling out and asking for understanding will save you from exhaustion and tears. And don't forget - while an empty diary is the route to sanity now, you will be back to your old self and in the world again soon. However, while you will want to make that extra time for yourself, don't forget that mixing with other new mothers can be a source of help and support.

• Exercise: As soon as you're feeling up to it, re-introducing gentle exercise will help clear your head and combat any potential post-natal depression. Even a short, brisk walk or a quick swim will release endorphins and make you feel calmer and brighter. And the fitter you are, the more energy you'll have to get through your day - and the inevitable sleepless nights.

New baby, new finances?
The arrival of a new baby can also be a time to re-think your finances and plan for their security in the future. In addition to savings accounts, you might want to consider taking out life insurance to help protect the family home, and perhaps provide support for your child should the unimaginable happen.