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7 Creative Ways to Support a New Mom Who Won’t Ask for Help
When I found out I was expecting my first child, my partner and I decided that I would leave my job to become a stay-at-home mom—a choice that thrilled me to no end. I thought I could tackle the sleepless nights and endless demands without breaking a sweat. Keeping the house spotless and shedding the baby weight in six weeks? Easy peasy! I could even manage to shower every day. I was convinced I could do it all. Little did I know how far off I was.
After my first baby arrived, I quickly felt overwhelmed by my swirling hormones and emotions. It only got tougher with my second and third. I desperately needed help, but asking for assistance felt like admitting defeat. With three healthy kids and my dream job of being home with them, I thought reaching out for support would make me seem weak. So, I kept quiet.
As the years went by, my sister and friends began having their own little bundles of joy. I met remarkable mothers, and guess what? They weren’t shy about asking for help. It dawned on me that they were incredibly strong because they could articulate their needs. By reaching out, they managed anxiety and postpartum blues far better than I did. Supporting a fellow mom can truly be lifesaving, especially in those early months.
I was fortunate to have wonderful women in my life who helped me during challenging times. Here are some ways you can assist new mamas who may not feel comfortable asking for help:
- Take the Kids for an Afternoon
When my sister had her third baby, I whisked her two older kids and my three out for some fun at the park followed by pizza. It was a blast, and my sister often tells me how much it meant to her to have that quiet time with her new baby. Plus, I got to feel like a superhero when people asked if all five kids were mine. Spoiler alert: I said yes! - Host a Family Dinner
A friend once invited me over after my first child was born, and it was a total game-changer. Just getting dressed and having a couple of hours of adult conversation felt refreshing, even if we just ordered pizza and kept it casual. - Drop Off a Sweet Surprise
Sending a gift card is a thoughtful gesture that new moms appreciate. Whether it’s for Starbucks, their favorite boutique, or a mani/pedi from a local salon, knowing there’s a treat waiting can bring a smile. My mom and sisters did this for me, and it was a dream—even if I did wake up drooling from my pedicure! - Coordinate Meal Deliveries
Organize a meal train by sending out a group message to gather people who can drop off dinners for a few weeks. Just be sure to check for food allergies and ask when would be the best time for deliveries. - Take Initiative During Visits
If you notice something needs doing while you’re visiting, just do it! Encourage her to take a nap or a shower if she looks tired. If the sink is overflowing, tackle those dishes. Sometimes, ticking off those daily chores can lift her spirits. - Stay Connected
A simple text saying, “I’m here for whatever you need,” can mean the world. It’s a gentle reminder that she’s not alone in this journey. - Reassure Her It’s Okay
Let her know it’s perfectly fine to ask for help, to express her feelings, and to need space. Some women find it incredibly hard to ask for assistance, so knowing you’re there is a comforting gift.
For many new moms, simply accepting help can be a monumental step. Remember, anything you can offer is a powerful gift—even if they haven’t explicitly asked for it.
If you’re interested in learning more about pregnancy, check out this excellent resource. And if you’re looking for reliable tools for home insemination, visit CryoBaby—they’re an authority on the topic. This post is part of our ongoing conversation about motherhood, and you can find more insights in our other blogs, such as this one.
Summary
Supporting a new mother who hesitates to ask for help is crucial. From arranging playdates and dinners to sending thoughtful treats and coordinating meal deliveries, small gestures can make a significant impact. By staying connected and reassuring her that it’s okay to seek assistance, you can help ease the overwhelming journey of motherhood.