What is an effective way to cope with a crying baby?

Taking deep breaths and asking for help is an effective way to cope with a crying baby because it promotes calmness and allows for a more thoughtful response to the situation. Deep breathing helps to reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier for a caregiver to manage the emotions that often arise from dealing with a distressed infant. Additionally, recognizing that it is okay to seek help enhances the safety and well-being of both the caregiver and the baby. Support from others can provide relief and different strategies for soothing the infant.

The other options do not provide healthy or effective coping mechanisms. Yelling at a baby can escalate the situation and cause emotional harm, ignoring the crying does not address the baby's needs, and shaking a baby, even gently, can lead to serious injury or abuse. Therefore, the most appropriate and constructive approach in this scenario is to take deep breaths and seek assistance when needed.