Setting Communication Boundaries While in The NICU
It’s no secret that one day in the NICU can vary so greatly from the next. It can feel overwhelming to know how to respond to the influx of messages and questions from well-meaning loved ones asking for updates that often times? We just don’t have the answers for.
How much do you share?
How do you celebrate and give updates about your child, and at the same time protect your heart from the responses of others? While there might not be an easy answer to this, communication boundaries can be a really helpful tool to guard our hearts and offer ourselves self-compassion while in the NICU.
Sharing about the progress and setbacks of your NICU baby can feel very vulnerable. Some mamas may find themselves more public with their journeys, and others may find themselves more private. There is no wrong or right way! Just know that honoring what you need and being selective in how and who you share your journey with is okay.
Additionally, setting communication boundaries doesn’t mean that you don’t update loved ones or include them on your journey! It simply means that you are setting the parameters to better guard and honor your heart in the process.
If you find yourselves isolating because it feels like no one understands, please know that your NICU sisters are here to surround you as you heal. We know the language and we know that vulnerability well. You are never alone.
Here are some ways to set communications boundaries
Sending a mass text to loved ones saying, “Thank you all for your love and support. We’d love to respond to each and every one of your messages, but as you can imagine, life in the NICU is busy and hectic. Please know that we will keep you updated as we can.”
Create a Facebook page or CaringBridge site to direct people for updates. This can also serve as a journal to look back on for years to come.
Asking family or friends to not post pictures or updates until you have been able to. Especially for moments like birth announcements, upcoming surgeries, etc.
Giving yourself time to process a new diagnosis before posting online or sharing publicly.
