Beyond Postpartum: How to Support Moms Throughout Their Motherhood Journey
May is Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month—and is also the month of Mother’s Day—and for that reason, we wanted to share with you the many ways you can support the mom in your life. Many moms feel they get support when they’re pregnant and in the first year postpartum, but begin to feel ignored and forgotten in the years to follow.
Motherhood is a beautiful journey, but let's be honest, it's also incredibly demanding. Moms wear many hats - nurturer, educator, chef, housekeeper, cheerleader - often with little time for themselves. That's where we, the village around them, come in.
This support system isn't just for new moms (though they certainly need it!). Mothers at every stage - working moms, stay-at-home moms, single moms - could all use a helping hand, a listening ear, or a simple "you're doing a great job." Here's how you can be a pillar of strength in the lives of the moms you know and love:
Offer Practical Help:
The Gift of Time: Moms are often time-starved. Offer to babysit so she can have a much-needed break, run errands, or attend a doctor's appointment.
Lighten the Load: Don't just ask what she needs, take initiative. Offer to cook a meal, do a load of laundry, or tidy up the house.
Be a Taskmaster: Sometimes moms just need someone to point them in the right direction. Help coordinate a meal train, find a reliable babysitter, or research a local daycare option.
Be a Shoulder to Lean On:
Active Listening: Sometimes moms just need to vent. Lend a listening ear without judgment and offer words of encouragement.
Validate Her Feelings: Motherhood is full of ups and downs. Acknowledge her struggles, anxieties, and frustrations. Let her know it's okay not to have it all together all the time.
Celebrate Her Victories: Big or small, celebrate her achievements. Did her child finally master potty training? Got that promotion she was working towards? Acknowledge her hard work and celebrate her success.
Empower and Encourage:
Believe in Her Choices: Motherhood comes with a lot of societal pressure. Avoid criticizing her parenting decisions and offer support instead.
Help Her Find Her Tribe: Encourage her to connect with other moms, whether it's through online forums, local mommy and me groups, or playdates.
Respect Her Time: Moms are busy! Be flexible when scheduling outings or activities. Understand that her schedule might not always align with yours.
Supporting Specific Needs:
New Moms: The first few months can be overwhelming. Offer to bring a meal, help with household chores, or hold the baby while she takes a nap.
Working Moms: Juggling work and motherhood is a constant balancing act. Offer to help with childcare pick-up/drop-off or provide a listening ear for work-related stresses.
Single Moms: Single moms face unique challenges. Offer practical help, babysitting, or simply be a dependable friend who can be counted on.
Remember, It's a Long Road:
Motherhood is a marathon, not a sprint. Don't let your support dwindle after the initial newborn stage. Moms need encouragement and help throughout their journey.
Here are some additional ways to show your support:
Offer thoughtful gifts: A spa day, a gift certificate for takeout, or a subscription to a service that makes her life easier.
Help with childcare emergencies: Be the person she can call when her regular babysitter cancels or daycare is closed.
Include her: Don't forget to invite her to social events, even if it means accommodating her needs (like offering an early dinner or bringing a baby monitor).
Advocate for change: Support policies that benefit mothers, such as affordable childcare or paid parental leave.
By offering practical help, emotional support, and unwavering encouragement, we can create a strong village that empowers mothers to thrive. Remember, even the smallest gesture can make a big difference. Let's show the moms in our lives how much we appreciate them, every step of the way.
If you’re a mom who finds herself in need of some extra support, we are here for you! We have therapists who specialize in women’s issues and can help you with the many specific issues faced in motherhood. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
