Becoming a new mom can be a happy experience, but it can also be challenging. A new mom may feel tired or sad. She may feel scared or stressed. Her body and mind are changing. She is learning how to care for her baby and also care for herself.
This is why the words we say to a new mom matter. Kind words can help her feel safe. Hurtful words can make her feel alone.
At Guillaume Counseling Services and Guillaume Marriage and Family Counseling, we support new mothers from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. We understand the importance of speaking with care. A simple sentence can lift a mom, or it can make her feel worse.
Below, we can help you understand what you should never say to a new mom about her mental health.
Why Words Matter
A new mother can experience a mix of emotions simultaneously. She may love her baby while also feeling uncertain or anxious. This is completely normal.
When others speak to her kindly, she may feel comforted. However, unkind remarks can make her question herself.
Every mom is different. Some moms may want to talk. Some may want quiet. Some may feel strong. Some may feel overwhelmed. All feelings can be real.
What You Should Never Say to a New Mom about Her Mental Health
- “You should be happy.”
A new baby can bring joy and hard days. A mom may feel many things at once. Telling her she should be happy may make her feel guilty. Instead, try saying, “Your feelings matter. I am here for you.”
- “Other moms do fine.”
Comparing her to other moms can hurt her. It may make her feel weak. Instead, try, “You are doing your best.”
- “It is not a big deal.”
To her, it may feel like a big deal. She may feel stressed or scared. Instead, say, “This sounds hard. How can I support you?”
- “You look tired.”
She already knows she is tired. She may feel bad when people point it out. Instead, say, “Can I help so you can rest?”
- “You think too much.”
Her mind may feel full. She may worry about her baby. Instead, say, “I hear you. Thank you for sharing.”
- “You know what to do.”
A new mom may feel confused. She may want help and clear steps. Telling her she knows what to do can leave her without support.
- “You are being dramatic.”
Her feelings may be strong and real. Instead, say, “I understand this feels hard.”
- “You wanted a baby, so why are you upset?”
A mom can love her baby and still feel sad or overwhelmed. Instead, say, “It is okay to have mixed feelings.”
How Families and Friends Can Help
Help can be small and safe. Bring food. Hold the baby while she naps. Ask how she is doing calmly. Keep your visits short if she looks tired. Ask what she needs. Do not guess.
If she says she is not okay, believe her. You can help by:
- Finding a doctor or counselor.
- Making a plan for her to get more sleep.
- Helping her eat better.
These steps may help her brain feel better.
When a New Mom May Need More Support
A new mom may need extra help when she feels extremely sad, anxious, angry, scared, or unable to rest. She may feel disconnected from the baby. She may feel worried that it will not stop.
These feelings can occur in many mothers. Support may help her feel less alone.
If you or someone you know may need help, Guillaume Counseling Services and Guillaume Marriage and Family Counseling can guide with care, respect, hope, and understanding.
How Guillaume Counseling Services and Guillaume Marriage and Family Counseling Can Support New Moms
Guillaume Counseling Services and Guillaume Marriage and Family Counseling may assist new mothers during pregnancy and the postpartum period. We provide support when it is needed most, helping mothers cope with:
- Sadness
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Changes at home
Support is also available for fathers. Many families may benefit from guidance as they adjust to new roles.
Our team specializes in counseling for:
- Individuals
- Families
- Couples
We focus on mental health and support diverse families, including:
- Immigrants
- Multiethnic families
- LGBTQ+ individuals
Parents often share personal cultural experiences and family stories.
Guillaume Counseling Services and Guillaume Marriage and Family Counseling respect personal beliefs and values while providing gentle guidance. We understand how culture and faith may influence a parent’s feelings and experiences.
Final Thoughts
Words are powerful. Say things that hold space, not that push away pain. A new mom may be brave and scared at the same time. Kind words can help her ask for help. Help that comes early can make a big difference.
If you want to help a new mom today, try one small kind act. Bring a snack, listen, or offer to watch the baby for twenty minutes. These things may let her rest and breathe.
For more support, Guillaume Counseling Services and Guillaume Marriage and Family Counseling can provide help tailored to her life and family.
You can be the friend who listens. That can matter more than you know.
FAQs
Why do my words matter to a new mom?
A new mom may feel sensitive. Kind words can help her feel safe and loved.
When should a new mom reach out for support?
A mom may reach out when she feels sad or stressed for many days. She may reach out at any time she wants to talk.