A heartwarming TikTok from @ustheremingtons with almost 12.4 million views shows a mom stepping in to give her new mom friend a much-needed break by sending her to get her hair done while she watches the baby. The video has struck a deep chord with moms, highlighting the profound impact of small, thoughtful gestures during postpartum recovery.
Jess Goodwin commented, “Not to be dramatic but i think you are the best mom and friend on the planet.” Another user, @little_fluffypanda, said, “I’m a firm believer that women were supposed to raise babies together. Just like this, supporting each other 💕✨”
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Why practical support matters for new mom
Postpartum can feel incredibly isolating and exhausting, yet new moms often hesitate to ask for help—whether they’re afraid of burdening others or simply unsure of how to express their needs. But practical gestures, like watching a friend’s baby or giving them a much-needed break for self-care, aren’t just thoughtful—they’re essential.
Research, including studies published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, consistently shows that emotional and practical support during postpartum can reduce the risk of depression, boost a mother’s confidence in parenting, and strengthen family relationships. New mothers may not always voice how desperately they need support, but these acts of kindness can profoundly impact their mental health and well-being.
The power of community among moms
We often hear that “it takes a village,” but modern parenting can feel lonely, especially in the early months. When moms step in to support each other — whether it’s through a quick check-in, a meal delivery, or babysitting — it builds a foundation of trust and shared understanding. As one commenter put it, “Women were supposed to rise babies together” — and small, thoughtful acts like this are a reminder that no mom should have to navigate postpartum alone.
Related: This advice about making mom friends will make you want to text your BFF immediately
Sources:
- Emotional and practical support during postpartum. National Library of Medicine. 2024. “Social Support, Postpartum Depression, and Professional Assistance: A Survey of Mothers in the Midwestern United States.”
- The risk of depression. National Library of Medicine. 2019. “Consequences of maternal postpartum depression: A systematic review of maternal and infant outcomes.”
