How to support your pregnant friend through lockdown loneliness
WITH Britain currently under a range of varying lockdown measures, family and friends are encouraged to reach out and support mums and mums-to-be in different ways.
This advice follows a study during the first national lockdown in March, which found that new and expectant mums’ mental health was affected by reduced social interactions.
Research carried out in June, by breastfeeding accessories brand Lansinoh, revealed that the first UK lockdown led to increased levels of anxiety and loneliness in new and expectant mums, due to not being able to spend this time with friends or family.
Among those surveyed, 70% reported increased anxiety levels, whilst 60% reported increased levels of loneliness. What’s more, 12% claimed they hadn’t left their home at all during lockdown.
To help new mums feel supported as the coronavirus pandemic continues, Lansinoh, has teamed up with midwife and antenatal educator, Marley Hall (BA RM Diphe) to offer ways in which family and friends can show their support when they can’t be as present as they would like.
Marley’s top tips include:
Offer practical help
EVEN during lockdown, there are a number of practical things that can really help new mums, such as providing meals, or offering to do a food shop and dropping it off on the doorstep.
Women need that mental space to be able to have those self-care moments, which is really important, and having support from family and
friends to allow them to do that, is valuable.
Arrange a socially distanced meet-up in a park or a virtual call
LONELINESS was one of the biggest effects on new mums of the first lockdown. However, the current lockdown restrictions still allow us to meet up outside. This can be a great way to provide support for your loved one.
Or, if you’re not quite ready to meet in public, then why not opt for a zoom call?
Provide emotional support
AS well as practical support, it’s
Online chat: Keep in touch with pregnant friends via a regular Zoom call important for new and expectant mums to know that they have the emotional backing of their family and friends too.
Whether it’s through arranging virtual meet-ups, or just being at the end of the phone during a midnight feed, these small gestures can make a huge difference.
For more on Lansinoh visit lansinoh.co.uk or follow on socialmedia @lansinohfamily