Support Her Too: 5 Ways New Dads Can Show Up During the Postpartum Stage

Becoming a dad changes everything—your sleep, your priorities, your identity. But in the middle of all the baby books and diaper runs, there’s something just as important that often gets overlooked:

Her.

Postpartum isn’t just a phase—it’s a vulnerable, hormonal, and emotional stretch of survival that affects nearly every new mom in some way. 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression, but more than half go undiagnosed. That means the strongest woman you know might be silently struggling—and doing everything in her power to hold it together.

And this is where you come in.

Not just as a father, but as a partner. As her teammate. As someone who sees her even when she feels invisible.

Why Maternal Mental Health Matters for Dads, Too

May is Maternal Mental Health Month, and it’s the perfect time for dads to lean in—not just for baby, but for the mother of their child. When we talk about showing up, it’s not always about doing big things. Sometimes, it’s the quiet support, the small gestures, and the simple presence that can be life-changing.

So if you're wondering how to support her (and strengthen your bond at the same time), here are 5 ways to be the teammate she needs right now:

1. Check in—not just about the baby, but about her

It’s easy to fall into a routine of “How’s the baby sleeping?” or “Did she eat today?” But try asking, “How are you really feeling?”
Make space for her emotions. Not to fix them, but to hear them.

🔁 Pro tip: Regular, judgment-free check-ins can help her feel seen and safe.

2. Step in without being asked

Don’t wait for her to assign tasks. Take initiative with feedings, laundry, or soothing the baby. Anticipating her needs shows that you’re not just “helping”—you’re parenting, too.

💡 Reminder: Mental load is real. Sharing it lightens the emotional weight she’s carrying.

3. Protect her rest like you protect the baby’s

Sleep deprivation can worsen anxiety, depression, and physical recovery. Whether it’s taking over night feeds, holding the baby while she naps, or just turning off the noise, prioritize her rest.

💤 Sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s survival fuel for new moms.

4. Speak life into her daily

She might not recognize herself in the mirror right now. Postpartum recovery is full of changes—physically, emotionally, mentally.

Tell her she’s strong. Tell her she’s doing a great job. Tell her she’s still the woman you love.

📣 Your words might be the reminder she didn’t know she needed.

5. Encourage her to ask for help (and model it too)

Whether it’s talking to a therapist, joining a support group, or seeing her doctor—remind her that needing help doesn’t mean she’s weak. Normalize it by being open about your own needs, too.

🧠 Mental health support is for both of you. Parenting takes a village—for baby and parents.

Final Thought: Partnership Is Protection

Being a new dad isn’t just about showing up for your baby. It’s about showing up for her, too. Your presence, patience, and partnership can be the anchor that helps her feel secure in the most unsteady moments.

And when dads show up with love, intention, and empathy—it doesn’t just strengthen your relationship. It strengthens your entire family.

You don’t have to be perfect. Just present.

Explore more ways to show up as a new dad on our Resource Hub
Follow us on Instagram for more playbooks, real talk, and dad-to-dad support.