Care Package Ideas for New Moms with Depression

New moms often experience a whirlwind of physical and emotional changes. Hormonal fluctuations, complications from childbirth, and the demands of caring for a newborn can take an emotional toll in the form of anxiety, sadness, and overwhelm. New moms with depression may find it particularly difficult to balance motherhood with their need for self-care.  

The demands of new motherhood can be particularly challenging for those who lack strong support networks or live far from family. Many new mothers report feeling disconnected from their pre-baby social circles and struggling to maintain meaningful connections during this transitional period. Adding to these challenges is the isolation that many new mothers experience as their relationships shift and support networks are strained.

How can you support a new mom with depression? Consider creating a care package with items that promote physical and mental well-being. While a care package obviously won’t cure depression or feelings of isolation, it can help to lift mom’s spirits, serve as a self-care reminder, and alleviate some of the overwhelm that new moms experience. Here are some care package ideas* for new moms with depression.

Ideas to support physical recovery for new moms with depression

Perineum care kit

Many new moms experience perineal discomfort, including soreness, swelling, and tearing. A perineum care kit provides targeted relief with tools to help mom heal. Include items such as peri bottles, ointments, and cooling wipes in your care package. You can compile these items on your own or take advantage of one of the ready-made care kits offered by Frida Mom.

C-section scar cream

New moms recovering from a C-section must cope with the additional discomfort of a surgical incision. They may also feel self-conscious about the resulting scar. C-section scar cream soothes post-surgical skin in the short term and minimizes the appearance of scars in the long term. 

Nipple cream

Nursing can cause nipples to become cracked or irritated. For moms who are breastfeeding, nipple cream provides relief from the soreness and discomfort associated with nursing. 

Hot/cold packs 

New moms who are breastfeeding might also experience breast pain, engorgement, and clogged ducts. Hot or cold packs can provide soothing relief. Heat improves milk flow, eases muscle tension, and prevents mastitis, while cold reduces swelling and pain.

Sleep care kit

It’s no secret that new moms struggle to get adequate sleep. New moms with depression may be especially sensitive to the physical and emotional impact of sleep deprivation. You can help mom get some much-needed rest with a sleep care kit including a scented eye mask, weighted blanket, sound machine, and noise-cancelling headphones for times when mom is “off-duty.”

Postpartum yoga subscription

Postpartum yoga is a modified, low-intensity practice specifically designed to help new mothers recover from childbirth. Gentle stretches and core engagement exercises help to restore mom’s strength and balance, while mindfulness and breathing exercises promote mental well-being. Consider including a subscription to a yoga app, online yoga classes, or an in-person local group so mom can access this mind-body tool on her unpredictable schedule.

Water bottle 

Staying hydrated is crucial for new moms, especially those who are breastfeeding. A high-quality water bottle with time markers can help mom track her daily water intake and ensure she stays properly hydrated throughout the day. Consider an insulated bottle that keeps drinks cold for hours and has a spill-proof lid for one-handed drinking while holding baby.

Ideas to promote mental well-being for new moms with depression

Subscription to a mindfulness app

Mindfulness meditation can help new mothers with depression interrupt negative thought patterns and manage stress. Apps like Mindful Mamas and Expectful provide guided meditations specifically for new moms. By including a subscription to a mindfulness app in your care package, you can help mom find calm amidst the chaos that often accompanies new motherhood.

Books

New mothers with depression face a unique set of challenges that can leave them feeling isolated and alone. Books such as This Isn’t What I Expected by Karen R. Kleiman and Valerie Davis Raskin offer much-needed understanding and support. In addition, postpartum workbooks provide practical exercises and strategies to help moms manage difficult emotions. Many of these books are available in audio form for moms who don’t have time to sit down and read.  

Meal delivery service subscription

New mothers with depression often struggle to find the time and energy to cook nutritious meals. A meal delivery service can provide healthy, ready-to-eat options that support mom’s physical and mental well-being. For example, Welcome Home offers premade meals especially for new moms. A subscription to a meal service helps ensure that mom gets the nourishment she needs while alleviating the stress of grocery shopping and meal preparation. 

Childcare vouchers

Caring for a newborn is a round-the-clock job that leaves little time for self-care. Childcare vouchers provide mom with opportunities to rest and recharge. Offer to watch the baby while mom takes a much-needed nap or reconnects with her partner. You can design your own vouchers or download them from Etsy. Knowing that she has someone to care for her little one, even for a short while, can help new moms with depression feel less isolated and overwhelmed.

Cleaning or laundry services

Childcare not your thing? Consider offering to do household chores like dishes and laundry. Alternatively, hire a professional cleaning service so mom has more time and energy to focus on caring for herself and her baby. This simple act of service can help reduce the stress and mental load that comes with being a new mom.

Reminding new moms with depression that they matter

The postpartum period can be particularly challenging for new moms with depression, as they adjust to the demands of motherhood and the accompanying physical and emotional changes. A thoughtfully curated care package can provide much-needed support for mom’s physical and mental well-being. Your support can remind a new mom with depression that they have a village to lean on. 

Keep learning practical ways to support moms and new parents in the postpartum period. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing postpartum depression, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. The Postpartum Support International helpline (1-800-944-4773) provides 24/7 support and resources for new mothers struggling with depression. 

*This article is not an endorsement for any specific products or services mentioned. New moms should consult healthcare providers before starting new supplements, exercise routines, or treatment plans.

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Author

Lindsay Schwartz is a psychotherapist in private practice in Acton, MA, where she specializes in the treatment of depressive and anxiety disorders. She has a background in school counseling and a special interest in mindfulness-based treatments. Lindsay earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and English from Williams College, and her Master’s degree in Social Work from Simmons College. In her free time, Lindsay enjoys writing, reading, running, and spending time with her husband and 2 children.