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Building your social networks

Belonging to a community larger than ourselves is a fundamental need, along with food, water, shelter and safety. People who belong to a community have less stress and feel their lives are more meaningful. At the time of birth, when so many things are changing, belonging is even more important. Our relationships to other people and our community - along with our role and our identity - has changed. Re-discovering where we belong is part of the matrescence journey.

Loneliness is more common among new parents than the general population, partly because of the nature of caring for a newborn but also because some societies lack community support for mothers at this time.

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Reflection questions

For parents

  1. Three people who I feel comfortable to talk to about my feelings, fears, concerns, etc.: ____________________
  2. When I feel lonely, I can (text/call/e-mail) ___________
  3. Three people who I feel comfortable talking to about my baby’s milestones and development: ____________________
  4. There are many different ways a parent needs to be supported after having a baby. Try to think of people who can support you in these areas:
  5. Household task support (cleaning/tidying, laundry, etc.)  ____________________
  6. Cooking/nourishment support (providing meals, grocery shopping)  ___________________
  7. Childcare support (caring for older siblings, caring for baby) ___________________
  8. Emotional support (a listening ear, an encouraging friend) ___________________
  9. How do I best feel supported by family and friends? Have I let my loved ones know how they can best help me?
  10. Where or with whom do I feel like I truly belong? 
  11. How can I build connections with people who understand the postpartum period?

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