by Emma | April 4th, 2025 | 3 min read

Motherhood is beautiful, but it can also be overwhelming. Between the demands of parenting, relationships, and daily responsibilities, it’s easy for mums to put their mental wellbeing on the back burner. But caring for your mind is just as important as caring for your family. Here are 5 Ways Mums Can Support Their Mental Health with simple, realistic ways to nurture your mental health- starting today.

1. Prioritize Rest (Even in Small Doses)

   
   

   

   
   

   Sleep might feel like a luxury, especially in the early years of parenting. But even short rest breaks- like power naps, quiet time, or going to bed 15 minutes earlier- can make a big difference in how you feel. Rest helps regulate mood, improve focus, and build resilience.

   
   

2. Stay Connected

   
   

Motherhood can feel isolating, but connection is powerful. Whether it's a quick chat with a friend, joining a local mum group, or just checking in with someone you trust, talking helps you feel less alone. Community reminds you that you’re not the only one navigating the challenges.

3. Move Your Body

   
   

Exercise doesn’t have to mean intense workouts or gym sessions. A short walk, dancing in your kitchen, or stretching for a few minutes counts. Movement releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters, and can help reduce anxiety and stress.

4. Ask for (and Accept) Help

   
   

   

   
   

   You don’t have to do it all. Whether it’s asking your partner to handle bedtime, accepting a meal from a friend, or reaching out to a therapist- help is there. Saying yes to support is not a weakness; it’s an act of self-care.

   
   

5. Make Time for You

   
   

It’s easy to lose yourself in the role of “mum,” but you are more than that. Carving out even 10 minutes for something you love- reading,

journaling, crafting, or simply enjoying a cup of tea- can help you reconnect with yourself and recharge.

Remember: Looking after your mental health doesn’t mean you’re failing as a mum. It means you’re human—and that you care enough to show up for yourself too.

Here’s a list of key mental health support phone numbers in the UK specifically helpful for mums and parents:

1. Maternal Mental Health Alliance

Website: www.maternalmentalhealthalliance.org

While they don’t have a helpline, their website links to specialist services and local support across the UK.

2. PANDAS Foundation (Pre and Postnatal Depression Advice and Support)

Helpline: 0808 1961 776

Open 11am – 10pm, 7 days a week

Support for parents experiencing perinatal mental illness (including anxiety, depression, and more).

Website: www.pandasfoundation.org.uk

3. Mind (Mental Health Charity)

Infoline: 0300 123 3393

Open 9am – 6pm, Monday to Friday

They offer information and signposting for mental health support.

Website: www.mind.org.uk

4. Samaritans

Freephone: 116 123

Available 24/7, every day of the year

For anyone struggling to cope, needing someone to talk to.

Website: www.samaritans.org

5. Birth Trauma Association

Email Support: support@birthtraumaassociation.org.uk

Provides support for mums dealing with difficult or traumatic birth experiences.

Website: www.birthtraumaassociation.org.uk

6. NSPCC / Parent Talk by Action for Children

Parent Talk Helpline: parent-talk.org.uk

Chat online with parenting coaches for emotional support and practical advice.

7. Tommy’s

Pregnancy Line: 0800 0147 800

Open Mon to Fri, 9am – 5pm

Support for parents facing pregnancy complications, baby loss, or mental health concerns.

Website: www.tommys.org