How To Support The New Mom In Your Life

Taking the big step into motherhood can be a little terrifying, strange, and isolating. In fact, 75% of moms in a 2023 survey described feeling “invisible.”

Moms need the support of others as they step into their new role — and you can be the one who throws the moms around you a lifeline.

You don’t have to move mountains to help moms thrive. Following a few practical strategies can make an enormous difference to someone who’s jumped headlong into the rollercoaster called motherhood.

1. Feed the whole family

It might sound silly to those unaccustomed to parenthood, but one of the toughest tasks is finding time to eat. Many moms are far too busy to grab a handful of crackers, let alone shop for a week’s worth of groceries. That’s where you can be a culinary superhero.

There are tons of ways to provide food-related assistance. For example, you could surprise the family with a homemade platter of sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Or, you could have whole meals sent right to your friend or family member’s door. Spoonful of Comfort features care packages curated especially for pregnant women and new moms. What could be easier than ordering a nutritious (and tasty!) care package from your tablet? With a couple of clicks, you could take away a huge stressor for a famished mom — and make her feel seen and cared for as well. (Bonus points for fueling her up with nutrient-rich calories if she’s nursing!)

2. Take some chores off her plate

Don’t just say “let me know if you need help with anything!” It’s unlikely a new mom will take you up on this offer. Ask specifically when you can come over to give her place an old-fashioned scrub-down. Though she might protest a bit, she’ll probably relent when she realizes that, hey, that growing pile of cloth diapers and onesies isn’t going to wash itself.

Alternatively, consider arranging three months of a cleaning service for your bestie (or partner!) Covering the costs for a one-time or occasional visit from a team of cleaning experts could be a nice treat.

3. Respect her need for self-care

If you’re someone who loves to hang out with babies, you probably want to drop by for cuddling, snuggling, oohing, and ahhing visits with the new moms you know. Before inviting yourself over, take a step back. The mom you want to see might need some downtime to connect with her baby and just recharge. As much as you want to spend time with her, consider reframing your request to stop by.

For instance, she might find it more helpful if you offered to babysit while she naps (or takes a precious shower.) It’s not that she doesn’t want to hang out with you, but she may need to be alone first. Your willingness to let her step away for a moment can be a priceless gift. When she’s had some away-time, she may be more energized to talk for a while.

4. Watch for signs of stress and depression

According to one recent survey, 76% of parents say they deal with anxiety and depression at least some of the time. This leaves them feeling depleted emotionally, which makes dealing with the everyday realities of living with an infant more overwhelming.

Whether the new mom you know is your partner, your bestie, your coworker, your sister, or your neighbor, make it a point to touch base regularly. Ask her gently how she’s doing and listen to her concerns when she needs to vent. If you sense that she’s sinking into a dark place, encourage her to seek assistance by speaking with her provider or pediatrician. Postpartum depression is a real phenomenon but can exist for a shorter duration when it’s identified and treated early.

5. Compliment her

It’s the rare woman whose body doesn’t undergo any physical transitions after giving birth. As a result, many new moms feel uncomfortable about the way they look. Add a lack of confidence to a load of stress deprivation, and you have all the makings for some dreary, unhappy days.

Whenever possible, point out the positives you see in a new mom. Whether it’s the glow on her face or the color of shirt she’s wearing, inundate her with genuine compliments. Chances are high that she’s not giving many to herself. While you’re at it, praise her good parenting skills and assure her she’s doing an amazing job.

Women shouldn’t feel like they’ve been brushed aside just because they’ve given birth and moved forward into a new life phase. Make it your mission to support other moms and their babies with thoughtful and heartfelt gestures.

*This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider.

BDG Media newsroom and editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.