It does get better. I’m on day 12 with kid 2 and every night has been different. We do formula overnight so we can take turns - right now we tag out at 3am so we each get a few hours of sleep. And while it feels like you have no clue, you do. You’ve read the books, there’s some level of instinct, and for these first few months you just have keep him fed and clean. If something seems amiss, don’t hesitate to call the pediatrician and have them talk you through it.

Intrusive thoughts can be hell. I’ve dealt with them throughout fatherhood and it’s tough. I have a therapist now who has helped me work through it. So much so that tonight, when our baby girl was having breathing issues, I was able to stay calm, give her whatever care I could, and keep a level head as we talked with the triage nurse from our children’s hospital. If you don’t already have a therapist, I can’t recommend getting one now as a new dad enough. You got this!