World Health Day 2025: 30 Ways to Support Maternal Mental Health

April 7, 2025 – This World Health Day marks the launch of a year-long global campaign: "Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures." The initiative calls on governments and healthcare systems to prioritize ending preventable maternal and neonatal deaths while safeguarding women's long-term well-being.

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it can also be emotionally challenging. Hormonal shifts, physical changes, and the weight of responsibility can affect mental health. Whether you're a partner, parent, or friend, here are 30 thoughtful ways to support the expecting mothers in your life—through clothing, comfort, and emotional care.

For Partners: Be Her Steady Anchor

  1. Daily hugs – Physical touch boosts oxytocin, reducing stress.

  2. "Mood tracker" – Use emojis to log her feelings and spot patterns.

  3. Take over chores – Handle heavy tasks but let her keep light activities for routine.

  4. Custom matching tees – Embroider your due date or a sweet message for connection.

  5. Create a pregnancy playlist – Fill it with songs from your relationship.

  6. Learn prenatal massage – Ease her back and foot pain with gentle techniques.

  7. Phone-free evenings – Dedicate distraction-free time to bond.

  8. Keep a kick-count journal – Celebrate baby’s movements together.

  9. Stock a cravings kit – Healthy snacks for sudden hunger pangs.

  10. Attend birth classes – Knowledge reduces anxiety about the unknown.

"The best prenatal vitamin isn’t just folate—it’s love, laughter, and emotional security."

For Parents: Gentle Guidance & Practical Help

  1. Ask, don’t assume – Say, "How can I help?" instead of giving unsolicited advice.

  2. Make a childhood photo album – Remind her of her own resilience.

  3. Upgrade her sleep space – Invest in pregnancy pillows and breathable bedding.

  4. Deliver nutritious meals – Prep freezer-friendly dishes for low-energy days.

  5. Host a moms’ circle – Connect her with other expecting women.

  6. Gift a lavender sachet – Natural calm for her nightstand.

  7. Map out walk-friendly routes – Note benches and restrooms nearby.

  8. Pack a "bad day" kit – Ginger candies, hydrating mist, and a stress ball.

  9. Practice mindfulness together – Try guided breathing exercises.

  10. Respect her birth choices – Support her plan without pressure.

For Friends: The Power of Small Gestures

  1. Start a "praise chat" – Have friends share what they admire about her.

  2. Host a craft day – Embroider baby onesies to channel nervous energy.

  3. Be a judgment-free listener – Sometimes she just needs to vent.

  4. Share trusted resources – Filter out alarmist Google results.

  5. Plan mini adventures – A 60-minute garden stroll or café date.

  6. Make a blessing book – Collect notes for the baby from loved ones.

  7. Gift cozy maternity wear – Seamless leggings or adjustable dresses.

  8. Create a support network – Save OB-GYN and taxi numbers in a group chat.

  9. Try art therapy – Paint or sketch to express unspoken worries.

  10. Organize postpartum help – Set up a meal train for after delivery.

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