In honour of Perinatal Mental Health Week, we’re diving into the mental health benefits of a strong postpartum support system. The postpartum period is a transformative and sometimes challenging time for new mums. It’s a phase of deep love and profound change, marked by physical recovery, emotional adjustments, and a significant shift in daily life. Yet, despite the excitement of welcoming a new baby, it’s common to feel moments of isolation, anxiety, and even overwhelm. Having a strong support network can be transformative for a new mum’s mental wellbeing.
Postpartum support isn’t just a “nice-to-have”; it’s essential. The transition to motherhood brings countless changes and challenges, from physical recovery to adjusting to a whole new human. A strong support system—a modern village— is the foundation of postpartum wellbeing. From facilitating rest and enabling physical recovery, support can help ease challenges, provide reassurance, resources, and companionship during this time.
One of the biggest mental health benefits of postpartum support is reducing isolation. New mums often feel alone, especially if they lack a nearby support system or don’t feel able to share openly about the highs and lows. By creating a village—whether it’s friends, family, hired postpartum support or even online communities—mums can connect, share, and see that they aren’t navigating this journey alone. Knowing someone else understands or that you aren’t the only mum up in the middle of the night navigating breastfeeding can make a huge difference.
Postpartum anxiety and depression are far more common than most people realise, affecting about 1 in 4 mums in Australia. Having regular, genuine support—whether it’s a listening ear, practical advice, or simply feeling understood—can make a world of difference. Research shows that mums with strong support systems are far less likely to experience severe postpartum anxiety and depression. Just knowing that you have people around you to lean on—and occasionally fall on—can offer a huge sense of relief and reassurance.
In those early weeks, it’s natural to doubt yourself. Am I doing this right? Is my baby healthy? These questions are so common, yet they can quickly knock a new mum’s confidence. A village of support—whether friends, family, or professionals—can make all the difference, offering encouragement and shared experiences that help mums feel capable and assured in their role. Knowing that others have faced similar struggles and come through can be incredibly empowering. It’s essential to support and uplift mums as they find their feet in motherhood.
A supportive village makes it possible for new mums to truly prioritise their own wellbeing. Rest, recovery, and nourishment are essential, but it’s often hard for a new mum to embrace these without a helping hand. A strong support network—whether it’s bringing over meals, watching the baby so she can nap, or taking care of household tasks—gives mums the space and support they need to rest and recover supporting her both physically and emotionally.
There’s nothing quite like a meal dropped at the door or a friend who offers to watch the baby so mum can shower. Practical support—like meal prep, babysitting, and help with household chores—can lift a huge weight off a new mum’s shoulders. At Village for Mama, our recipe gift cards are a simple way for friends and family to provide nourishing meals, letting new mums know they are loved and cared for.
Postpartum can be an emotional whirlwind, and having a safe, non-judgmental space to express these feelings is vital. A supportive village offer mums a chance to voice their fears, frustrations, and joys openly. Whether it be with close friends or postpartum professionals, being able to express what’s on their mind without fear of judgment helps mums process their experiences and feel understood.
Creating a support network doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some practical ways to start gathering your own modern village:
Begin with your closest circle—family and trusted friends. Let them know specifically how they can help, whether it’s bringing over a meal, watching the baby while you nap, or simply being there to listen. A wonderful way to invite loved ones into your village is at your baby shower or mother’s blessing, where you can use your Village for Mama recipe cards to share nourishing meal ideas for postpartum.
Planning your postpartum period with your partner is essential. By discussing and preparing together, your partner can be an incredible source of support and an essential part of your village. Not just for you but for the rest of your village. When both of you are prepared, it makes navigating this transition together much more manageable and rewarding. If you want a fun easy way to prepare together check out this journal using The Fair Play deck to plan postpartum with your partner.
Having professional support lined up can make a huge difference. Use the Village for Postpartum directory to connect with trusted postpartum practitioners in your area. Reach out during pregnancy to establish connections and confirm their availability around your due date. This way, you’ll have access to professional guidance and care exactly when you need it.
Social media, especially Instagram, can be a fantastic way to find community, connect with other mums, follow journeys similar to your own, and gain valuable insights. I love accounts like Mama Matters and Atlas of Motherhood for their supportive content. But remember, social media isn’t always a positive space, so it’s important to notice how you feel about what you’re consuming. Don’t hesitate to unfollow or mute accounts that don’t bring comfort or support—curate a feed that uplifts you. And always feel free to take a step back whenever you need.
Connecting with local mother groups, postpartum support groups, or online forums can be invaluable. These communities bring together mums who are going through similar experiences, offering a place to share advice, stories, and understanding that can be a real source of strength and solidarity. I have found podcasts another incredible way to feel less isolated and connected with others. They often have facebook groups too where you can connect with other mums.
At Village for Mama, we’re dedicated to empowering mums through the strength of community. Our postpartum recipe book, complete with recipe gift cards, is thoughtfully designed to make it simple for friends and family to support a mum’s recovery in a meaningful way.
The mental health benefits of having postpartum support are profound. From reducing isolation and easing anxiety to boosting confidence and offering practical help, a strong support network can truly transform a mum’s wellbeing. At Village for Mama, we believe in the power of community and the magic that unfolds when people come together to support a new mum. By gathering your village, you’re creating space to fully embrace your postpartum journey, emerging into motherhood feeling supported, empowered, and confident.
You can gather your professional village using our Village for Postpartum Directory. Another incredible resource for new parents is the PANDA website, which offers support and information on perinatal mental health. Please also check out COPE.
Tailored for the busy mum navigating the demands of motherhood, offering over 30 easy-to-prepare, nourishing recipes.
