Supporting a new mom during the postpartum period is a critical role that requires empathy, patience, and understanding. Whether the new mom is your spouse, partner, daughter, sister, or close friend, your presence and encouragement can make a significant difference in how she copes with the challenges she may be experiencing.
It's important to acknowledge that supporting a new mom is not always straightforward. Your good intentions may not always have the intended impact and could inadvertently contribute to the new mom's emotional struggles.
It's crucial to realize that conditions like postpartum depression and anxiety are complex and may not be easily remedied through external support alone. Recovery is a gradual process that may involve professional intervention and time. As a support system, your role is to provide a safe space, understanding, and non-judgmental support as the new mom works towards healing and navigating her journey of motherhood.
Remember that your presence, listening ear, and willingness to help without imposing your own expectations are invaluable to the new mom.
By offering your support with compassion and patience, you can truly make a difference in her well-being during this challenging time.
Why is she depressed or anxious?
Seven out of ten women to go through the baby blues, with many new mothers experiencing some emotional highs and lows during the initial weeks after childbirth.
Additionally, one out of seven women may suffer from postpartum depression, while postpartum anxiety affects one out of five women.
Surprisingly, one out of ten fathers also experience depression following the birth of their child, and if the mother has postpartum depression, there is a 40% chance that their partner will also experience depression.
The reasons behind the occurrence of perinatal mood disorders in so many women remain unknown, although it is believed to be linked to hormonal fluctuations during and after pregnancy.
Elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone in pregnant women drop back to their pre-pregnancy levels within a day of delivery, potentially triggering symptoms.
This, combined with the fatigue of new parenthood and the anxiety associated with caring for a newborn.
The good news is that things will settle down at home, and you will eventually get your life back.
Studies indicate that postpartum symptoms significantly improve with continuous support, particularly when it is provided by the partner.
Here are some recommendations on how you can offer assistance.
Tell her that you know she feels terrible.
Tell her she will feel better.
Tell her you know she is working hard at being a mom.
Tell her she is still a good mother even if she doesn't feel like one at that moment.
Tell her it is ok to make mistakes and she does not have to be perfect.
Tell her to let you know what she needs you to help her with.
Tell her you love her, you love the baby and that the baby will be fine.
Tell her she is doing all she can to get better and support her decision to get treatment. Untreated postpartum depression and anxiety can affect the mother's ability to care for her baby and can affect the baby's healthy development.
Small gestures of kindness can significantly enhance her overall well-being.
Don't presume that you're being helpful just by mowing the lawn or emptying the trash or taking care of something you feel is important. Instead ask her how she wants you to help.
Offering help with tasks like household chores - answering the phone, taking messages, doing laundry, washing dishes, cooking dinner or tidying up could be beneficial to her.
You might also suggest holding the baby to give her a chance to relax, shower, or take care of herself.
Let her know that you are there for her - even if it is hard for you because she may be sad or distant.
Call her from work and check in every day.
Call her again if she is having a tough day.
Ask her what you can do to help.
How is postpartum depression and anxiety treated?
Therapy for help to cope with symptoms.
Support groups help by providing comfort and understanding.
Self care including rest, food, hygiene and physical activity are all important for well being.
Medication can help, but can take a few weeks to be effective.
Have more questions?
We can help! Please reach out to us at wellspaceforwomen@gmail.com
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