Bringing your little one home from the neonatal unit is a big step and it will probably cause mixed emotions. While it is an exciting milestone, it is normal to feel anxious or overwhelmed as you adjust to life at home. Having the right support can make a big difference, whether it is from loved ones or practical resources.

Your family and friends can be a great source of help, but they might not always know how to best support you. Some days, you may want to talk about what you are going through, while at other times, you might need space. Think about what kind of help would be most useful for you and try to honestly tell others. For example, practical help such as cooking meals, helping with housework, or running errands, might take more of the pressure off you than focusing just on emotional support.

If you have other children, the early days at home might be particularly challenging. Asking a friend or family member to help with school runs or childcare can give you more time to focus on your youngest baby. It can also be helpful to designate one person as the main point of contact for sharing updates with others. This way, you will not feel overwhelmed by answering questions or keeping everyone informed.

Financial issues may become relevant when a baby is born preterm or sick. The costs of travelling to and from the hospital, along with other expenses, can add up quickly. Staff at the neonatal unit (such as social workers or community outreach teams) can provide advice if funding or other help can be made available. Sometimes charities may offer additional support specifically for those in your situation.