Supporting a Loved One with Postpartum Depression

October 16, 2025 - Smart TMS

Smart TMS

It can be upsetting when someone close to you is experiencing postpartum mental health problems.

Postpartum depression is one of the most common postpartum mental health conditions. It is a type of depression that occurs after a new baby is born, and it can affect any new parents — both the person who has given birth and their partner.

Some people who experience postpartum depression might struggle to ask for help. There can be many reasons for this; it may be out of fear that they will be judged as a bad parent, or they may want support but don’t know exactly what support they need.

Family and friends play a crucial role in supporting loved ones experiencing postpartum depression. There are different types of support that can be offered:

Emotional support – listening and providing empathy and reassurance
Practical support – helping to lighten their load, such as chores and errands
Informational support – providing knowledge or resources

New parents may need one or all of these types of support. They often share that they receive lots of information and advice from other people, which can be overwhelming. Therefore, it may be worth asking before offering unsolicited advice and focusing on providing emotional and practical support.

Emotional support

Check in: People often check in to see how the baby is doing, but few actually ask how the parent is doing. This can leave the parent feeling forgotten or uncared for. To counter this, make an effort to ask how the parent is doing and allow them to share their true feelings with you.

Listen without judgement: Some people may benefit the most from just talking to someone. This could mean sitting with them while they cry or vent their feelings, or sitting in silence together — offering a safe space where they can express how they truly feel.

Offer to spend time with them: Having some company can help them feel less isolated. This doesn’t have to involve leaving the house; it can be at home while they look after the baby. For example, you could watch a film or TV show together, cook or bake something, or revisit activities you used to enjoy before they became a parent.

To ensure the visit is helpful, make it clear that they don’t need to tidy up or prepare for your visit, so there’s no added stress.

Encourage self-care: It’s easy for new parents to neglect their own needs and wellbeing. You could offer to look after the baby while they take a relaxing bath, get some rest, or enjoy a quiet moment for themselves.

Give them space and respect boundaries: Don’t forget to give them space too. They may not always have the energy to respond to messages or meet up. Let them know that there’s no pressure — that you’re there for them whenever they’re ready.

Continue to show up: Postpartum depression can last for months or even years. Continuing to check in with a quick message or visit can make a big difference and remind them that they’re not alone.

Practical support

Help with household chores: Managing household tasks can feel overwhelming for new parents, especially when coping with depression or fatigue. Offer to help with dishes, laundry, or cleaning — small acts that can provide significant relief.

Bring over meals: Nutrition often takes a backseat during the postpartum period. Bringing over home-cooked meals or healthy snacks can help ensure the family gets the nourishment they need.

Help with appointments: Offer to help them organise or attend medical appointments, especially if they’re feeling anxious or forgetful.

Go to activities together: Social support can be vital for recovery from postpartum depression. Offer to attend parent-baby groups or wellbeing sessions together to help ease the anxiety of joining new spaces.

Create a wellbeing plan: Help them identify signs of overwhelm and build a simple plan — like easy meal ideas, reminders to rest, hydrate, or get some fresh air. Encourage them to include time for relaxation and things that bring them joy.

Informational support

Help them research options for support: There are many resources and treatments available for postpartum depression — from counselling and peer support groups to medical treatments. Offer to help research and gather contact details so they can easily reach out when ready.

Encourage professional help: If symptoms persist or worsen, encourage them to seek help from their GP or mental health professional. Treatment options for postpartum depression may include antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, or newer, non-invasive treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy.

TMS for Postpartum Depression: TMS is a safe, drug-free, and non-invasive treatment for depression, including postpartum depression. It uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain linked to mood regulation and has shown to be effective for people who haven’t responded to traditional treatments. Unlike medication, TMS typically has minimal side effects and allows patients to continue breastfeeding safely.

How Smart TMS Can Help

At Smart TMS, we specialise in providing TMS therapy for a wide range of mental health conditions, including postpartum depression. With clinics across the UK, our mission is to help new parents find safe, effective, and evidence-based alternatives to traditional treatments.

If you or someone you love is struggling with postpartum depression, know that help is available — and recovery is possible. Learn more about how TMS treatment can support long-term mental wellbeing by visiting Smart TMS.