When excessive crying (or infant colic) subsides after the 3rd month of life, it is classified as a normal adjustment phase. It has no disadvantageous effects on the child’s development.

However, parents often perceive excessive crying as very burdening for themselves. It can lead to strong exhaustion and feelings of depression and anxiety. This could, in turn, affect the couple’s relationship.

Parents of children who cry excessively often describe helplessness and despair. Unfortunately, it sometimes happens that parents become so overwhelmed that they shake their babies. Thus, excessive crying is a risk factor for shaking the baby, which can lead to life-threatening brain and spinal cord damages.

No matter how desperate you may be – never shake your child!

Shaking can lead to serious injuries or death of your baby. If you worry that stress and negative feelings may overwhelm you to the extent that you lose control, you will find an emergency plan with emergency contacts in the Emergency & Help section.

If your child cries excessively, it is very important that you remain calm. In the Selfcare section, you can find information and exercises for self-relaxation.