Partner Conversation Guides

Sometimes She Does Not Need You to Fix It. She Needs You to Hear Her. When someone you love is struggling emotionally, it is natural to want to make things better. But sometimes attempts to help can unintentionally shut the conversation down.

Statements such as:

“You’ll be okay.”

“You’re just tired.”

“Try not to think about it.”

“You wanted the baby.”

“Other women go through this too.”

may be intended as encouragement.

But the mother may hear:

“What I am feeling is not important.”

Try Asking Better Questions

Instead, consider asking:

“How are you really feeling?”

“What has been the hardest part for you?”

“Would you like me to listen, or would you like help finding a solution?”

“What would make today a little easier?”

“Would you like help talking with someone who can provide additional support?”

Conclusion

You do not have to have every answer to be supportive.

Sometimes support begins by creating a safe place for an honest answer.

Support Can Include the People Who Love Her

The Postpartum MENTAL Wellness Circle includes education and tools designed to help women better understand postpartum mental wellness and have healthier conversations with the people around them.