It Takes A Village
Social support is crucial during your perinatal journey. A good support system alleviates stress, depression and anxiety. The comfort, guidance and physical help that comes from the people closest to you can help ensure a healthy and safe environment for mom and baby.
Mothers with strong social networks in pregnancy are 1.6–1.8 times more likely to maintain good mental health after birth. Supportive environments help pregnant people cope better with life stressors, which benefits both parent and baby. Women with higher support report less fear of childbirth and greater confidence in the birth process. Having people to lean on also lowers the risk of self-harm and improves overall emotional well-being.
Your needs change significantly from prenatal to postpartum. Higher support postpartum is linked with lower anxiety, less sleep disruption, and greater resilience. Mothers who feel supported report greater peace of mind and better adjustment to early parenthood. It’s important to understand and ask for the type of support that you need.
Types of Support That Make a Difference
Emotional support (being listened to, feeling cared for) strengthens coping and bonding.
Practical support (help with finances, household tasks, child care) lightens daily burdens.
Informational support (advice, health knowledge) boosts confidence in decision-making.
Cultural/traditional support provides grounding, continuity, and spiritual comfort.
Reaching out for help during pregnancy and after giving birth is an act of strength, not weakness. As a Black woman, and as a BMHCE client, you have access to a strong community of people eager to bolster you. Support can look different for everyone — maybe it’s asking family to bring meals, leaning on friends to watch the baby so you can rest, or seeking guidance from a trusted community member or mentor. It’s okay to be clear about what you need, whether that’s emotional encouragement, practical help with daily tasks, or just someone to listen. Remember: your health and well-being matter, and allowing others to support you not only strengthens you, but also helps your baby thrive.
Take Inventory of Your Village
Your village can consist of family, friends, coworkers, and community members. Each person’s village looks different and should be specific to your interests, comfort, and overall needs. Start to think about who are the people that make up your village.
Who do I feel safe and comfortable reaching out to?
Who has offered help before that I can lean on again?
Are there community groups or local programs I can connect with?
Build a Support Plan
Life can become overwhelming at inconvenient times. You cannot predict when problems will come up, but you can build a foundation with your village to deal with them when they arise. To be proactive, plan out who you can reach out to you when you need support.
Who can I call when I feel overwhelmed?
What backup supports are available if they are busy?
When requesting support from your village, it can be helpful to be specific about your needs. Don’t be afraid to ask for help with the less desirable tasks - cleaning, laundry, and runnings errands. These everyday chores can pile up and feel overwhelming when your energy and focus are on caring for your baby. Letting others handle those responsibilities not only lightens your load, but it also gives you more space to rest, heal, and bond with your little one. Asking for this kind of help isn’t a burden — it’s a healthy way to protect your well-being.