Returning to Work after Parental Leave: Get Emotional Needs met through Spouse Support

How can you and your spouse stay connected in the return to work after maternity leave or parental leave? Adjusting to the transition and re-navigating division of labor can bring significant tension.So how do you get emotional support and stay in each other’s corner when the mental load and invisible load is high, there are identity shifts happening, and you’re both still adjusting to marriage after baby?In this episode, MJ Harford, LPC and I discuss what emotional safety new parents can build together as a foundation to navigate issues that come up with the return to work.MJ is a therapist serving individual clients in Virginia & DC, specializing in maternal mental health. She is also the founder of Resilient Returns, where she helps working parents and businesses navigate the transition back to work after parental leave.  MJ and I share how couples can co-create emotional safety and managing emotional triggers around returning to work and division of labor so that you can navigate together without defensiveness, shutting down, and lashing out. So you guys can stay on the same team!Part 2 of our discussion next week will dive into concrete tools and approaches that can help ease the transition back to work after parental leave.Resources and deals for the working parent:MJ’s division of labor exercise: interactive + digital workbook.All Bonds after Baby listeners can use the code BAB50 at checkout to receive 50% off their parent program purchase at Resilient Returns. Connect with EvieWebsiteSupport for CouplesInstagram @bondsafterbabyThis Podcast is not an alternative for mental health assistance and/or counseling with a licensed professional. For any specific medical questions about your condition and/or concerns, please contact your healthcare provider. This Podcast should not be considered mental health advice, rather for the sole purpose of information and education.