The first weeks after a baby arrives can be joyful, exhausting, and completely overwhelming. While friends and family often want to help, they’re not always sure what would actually make a difference.

Small gestures can go a long way toward helping a new mom feel supported.

Here are ten practical ways anyone can help.

1. Send a text just to say you’re thinking of her.
Let her know there’s no pressure to respond. 

2. Bring food—or a gift card for takeout.
 Cooking is often the last thing a new parent has time or energy for. Dropping off a meal or sending a restaurant gift card is one of the most helpful things you can do.

3. Ask how she is doing.
 Most of the attention goes to the baby. Make sure to check in with the mom too. A simple “How are you holding up?” can mean more than you think.

4. Help with something practical when you visit.
 If you’re coming by to meet the baby, ask if there’s something you can do while you’re there—fold laundry, empty the dishwasher, or hold the baby so she can shower or nap.

5. Deliver or invite her out w/ the baby her favorite drink
 This small gesture will help her return to some sense of normalcy and getting out of the house can be healing for mom and great for baby.

6. Offer to run an errand.
 Trips to the grocery store or pharmacy can feel like a major production with a newborn. Offering to pick something up can remove one more stressor from her day.

7. Invite her for a walk.
 After the early flurry of visitors fades, many new moms feel isolated. A walk around the neighborhood offers fresh air, movement, and a chance to talk to another adult.

8. Help with older kids—or pets.
 If there are older children, offer to take them to the playground or for an outing. If it’s her first baby, see if she’d appreciate help walking the dog.

9. Be a good listener.
 Sometimes she just needs someone to hear her out. Let her talk without judgment or trying to fix everything.

10. Be honest about the realities of new parenthood.
 If she asks about your experience, share it honestly. The newborn stage can be wonderful and incredibly hard at the same time. Feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or unsure is common.

And if you’re concerned that a new mom may be struggling emotionally, encourage her to ask her insurer for a list of perinatal mental health certified (PMH-C) providers to schedule an appointment with. Support is also available 24/7 through the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline, which offers free, confidential support by calling or texting 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262). 

Closing the Gaps in Maternal Mental Health Care

While friends, families, and communities play a critical role in supporting new parents, systemic gaps in maternal mental health care still leave too many women without the help they need. That’s why the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health works to advance policies that expand access to screening, treatment, and support for maternal mental health conditions.

Lasting change requires a strong system of care. Together, we can both make a meaningful difference for mothers and families.