How to Support Postpartum Mental Health: Tips for Family & Friends

Welcoming a new baby into the world is a joyous occasion, but it can also bring significant changes and challenges for new parents, especially when it comes to postpartum mental health. Supporting a loved one's well-being during this transition is crucial for their emotional and mental health. Here are practical tips for family and friends to provide meaningful support during the postpartum period.

Understanding Postpartum Mental Health

1. Be Informed: Educate yourself about common postpartum mental health conditions such as postpartum depression (PPD), postpartum anxiety, and postpartum psychosis. Understanding the signs and symptoms is essential for early detection and intervention.

2. Normalize the Experience: Assure the new parent that postpartum mental health challenges are common and nothing to be ashamed of. Normalize the spectrum of emotions they may experience during this time.

Tips for Family & Friends

1. Offer Practical Support: Help with household chores, cooking meals, running errands, or caring for older siblings. Taking on these tasks can relieve some of the new parent's stress and allow them to focus on self-care.

2. Listen Without Judgment: Create a safe space for the new parent to express their feelings and concerns without judgment. Simply being present and attentive can provide immense comfort.

3. Encourage Rest and Self-Care: Encourage the new parent to prioritize rest and self-care. Offer to watch the baby while they nap, take a bath, or engage in activities that promote relaxation and well-being.

4. Check-In Regularly: Keep in touch with the new parent regularly, even if it's just a brief message or phone call. Let them know you're there to offer support and companionship.

5. Respect Boundaries: Respect the new parent's boundaries and preferences. Be mindful of their need for space and privacy, especially during vulnerable moments.

6. Offer Emotional Support: Validate their feelings and emotions, and offer words of encouragement and reassurance. Let them know they're doing a great job and that it's okay to ask for help.

7. Help Access Professional Help: Encourage the new parent to seek professional help if needed, such as therapy or counseling. Offer to assist in finding resources and scheduling appointments.

Supporting Partner or Spouse

1. Share Responsibilities: Encourage the partner or spouse to actively participate in caregiving and household tasks. Sharing responsibilities can alleviate stress and foster a sense of teamwork.

2. Validate Feelings: Acknowledge the partner's feelings and concerns. Offer emotional support and reassure them that seeking help is a positive step towards recovery.

3. Take Care of Yourself: Remind the partner or spouse to prioritize their own well-being. Encourage them to seek support from family, friends, or support groups.

Supporting postpartum mental health is a collective effort that requires empathy, understanding, and proactive involvement from family and friends. By offering practical assistance, emotional support, and encouraging professional help when needed, loved ones can make a significant difference in the well-being of new parents during the postpartum period. Remember, your presence and care can have a profound impact on someone's journey to recovery and adjustment to parenthood. Let's work together to create a nurturing environment where every new parent feels supported, valued, and empowered to prioritize their mental health and well-being.

Postpartum mental health issues do not discriminate; new mothers must receive the care and attention they need. Your support is vital to the moms in your life. If you or a loved one is struggling with postpartum mental health, LunaJoy is here to help through the new challenges of motherhood. Please contact us to schedule an appointment.