Families with mental illness are known to face significant challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and social exclusion. Thus, there is a need to shift the focus on addressing mental health issues in family members from mere individuals to the experience of other family members who are affected by it. 

Unfortunately, recognizing and addressing family mental health issues is not an easy task due to the stigma surrounding mental illness. Consequently, a family’s struggles with mental health problems might go unnoticed, compromising the well-being of a family as a whole. 

This article will break the silence of the family’s struggles with mental health problems. It will provide you with fruitful information on how to identify family mental health issues and learn practical ways to approach these challenges within the family setting. Start reading to recognize the signs and find the necessary steps to address these issues properly. 

Recognizing signs of mental health issues

The World Health Organization stated that 1 in 8 people worldwide live with a mental health disorder. According to the WHO, a mental health disorder is mainly characterized by disturbance in an individual’s cognition, emotional regulation, and behavior. It means that the person with a mental health issue experiences impairment in their essential areas of functioning. 

In general, mental health issues are associated with psychosocial disabilities, significant distress, impairment in functioning, and a high risk of self-harm. Equipping yourself with the knowledge about the signs of mental health issues identifies potential mental health problems in your family and prevents more severe complications. 

The next sections will discuss some common signs of mental health problems you can identify in your loved ones.

Behavioral and emotional signs 

Behavioral and emotional problems that indicate a mental health issue can manifest in various ways, depending on the disorder, circumstances, and other factors. In terms of behavioral and emotional aspects, signs and symptoms of a mental health disorder can include the following.

Changes in eating or sleeping patterns 

Individuals with mental health problems may find it hard to fall asleep, stay asleep, as well as get out of bed. They may often feel tired or sleepy because of experiencing ongoing problems that disturb their sleep, such as panic attacks, flashbacks, and nightmares. 

When it comes to eating, a mental health problem can affect eating patterns in numerous ways. It can lead to emotional eating, meaning that individuals turn to food for comfort or as a coping mechanism when dealing with anxiety and depression. This eating pattern can lead to overconsumption of high-calorie and high-fat foods. 

In contrast, mental health issues can also greatly decrease appetite, significantly reducing food intake. 

Unexplained mood swings

It is normal for people to experience mood changes. However, intense and persistent emotional ups and downs may reflect mental illness.

When you feel that the mood shifts disrupt your life and even the lives of the people around you, it can be a sign of mental health conditions occurring. Some mental health issues, such as clinical depression and bipolar disorder, are considered mood or affective disorders. 

Withdrawal from social activities

In temporary cases, people may withdraw from social activities because they need to spend time alone. However, prolonged social withdrawal can be linked to mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression. 

Physical symptoms 

Other than behavioral and emotional signs, there are also physical signs that often accompany mental health issues. Here are a few signs: 

Fatigue

Fatigue is a persistent feeling of exhaustion or lack of energy, inextricably linked to psychological disorders. 

Depression is a common cause of fatigue. This condition is often followed by sleep disturbance, difficulty concentrating, and persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder and ADHD, can also contribute to fatigue and general tiredness. 

Headache

This is a common indicator of a mental health problem, including anxiety disorder, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. 

Individuals with severe headaches due to depression and anxiety disorders had significantly poorer health quality and lowered quality of life than those without either disorder. 

Changes in physical activity levels

Mental health problems may lead to a persistent feeling of exhaustion and lack of energy, which often leads to decreased physical activity levels. People experiencing mental health issues often withdraw from activities they enjoy or find it difficult to exercise and do daily activities. 

Principles of addressing potential mental health issues in family members

Living with a family member with a mental illness can be tough. When you recognize some signs of mental health issues in your loved ones, you may feel extremely worried, wondering what causes the problems and what to do to provide them with the necessary support. 

Despite the importance of providing help and support, there are principles you must keep in mind when addressing potential mental health issues in your family members: 

Dos

Supporting a family member with mental health issues requires sensitivity, understanding, and a proactive approach. By adopting these strategies, you can create a supportive environment that supports their well-being and encourages them to seek the help they need. 

• Listen without judgment. Be available and try to actively listen to your family members with an open mind. It is important not to give unsolicited advice about their mental condition so that the family members know that they always have your unconditional support. 
• Ask questions. It’s okay if you do not totally understand what your loved one is going through. Rather than giving advice, it’s better to ask them how they feel, the symptoms they experience, and how you can help. Do not push them to give you answers; try to provide them with an opening to explain things if they want to. 
• Encourage them to seek help. If the person who struggles with mental health issues is not being treated, let them know that various forms of help are available. Offer to help them get any treatment they need and provide some information you know about mental health treatment. 
• Offer to help with daily tasks. Help can manifest in countless ways, even small ones. You can help individuals with mental health issues by making their lives a little easier. For instance, you can offer help to prepare meals, pick up groceries, and clean the house, just to name a few. 

Read more: Communication in Relationships and Their Impact on Mental Health 

Don’ts

On the other hand, there are also responses that you shouldn’t give. These responses are often unhealthy and can worsen the situation further. Avoid the following:

• Assuming you know what they go through.  While you want to sound sympathetic and assure the person that they are not alone, do not ever compare your feelings and experiences to what they are going through. Doing so might generate an impression that the person’s experience of going through mental health issues is not valid. 
• Telling them what to do without being asked. In some cases, telling someone what they should do without necessarily being in their shoes is not wise. When a family member with mental health issues explains to you their struggles and conditions, it is better to just listen to them attentively and let them know that you will be glad to offer help or advice if needed. 

Practical steps to help a family member with mental health issues

As a family, you want to offer the best kind of support you can to assist your loved one going through mental health issues. By incorporating the key principles mentioned before, you can help a family member with a mental health problem in a more appropriate way.

Strategizing your intervention

When you suspect your family member of having a mental health problem, you may feel that you really want to do anything to make their condition better. However, going through a mental health issue is quite a sensitive experience. It is important to approach the condition properly. 

One of the hardest things to do is initiate a conversation about a mental health condition. You do not have to be an expert who knows everything about what your loved one is going through. Do not be afraid to talk about it; start by expressing your concerns and your readiness to listen to the person. 

Use “I statements” when expressing your concerns. Using “I statements” in communication shows care and patience, rather than using the word “you,” such as “you need to…” or “you should…”

For example:

• “I am worried about you..” 
• “I am afraid of…”
• “I feel like you …”

Navigating healthcare services

The healthcare process can be challenging, especially for mental health-related concerns. But, with patience, care, and willingness to gather appropriate information, you can find the right support for your loved ones. 

When navigating healthcare services, you need to identify the needs of the family member who goes through a mental health issue.

For example, do they need therapy, medication management, or both? If possible, ask the person about certain preferences they have regarding healthcare services, such as the location, gender of the therapist, and types of therapy provided. 

You may ask for recommendations from doctors, friends, and other family members who have had a positive experience with mental health professionals. Do not forget to ensure that the therapist or psychiatrist is licensed to treat the mental health issues that your family member is facing. 

Seeking out community resources

Other than support from mental health professionals, a person with mental health problems may also need comfort and companionship from other persons who were or are going through the same issue. 

A support group can fill a gap in medical treatment by providing a safe space for people with mental health issues to share feelings, experiences, and coping strategies. Participating in a support group can also provide your loved one with an opportunity to connect with people who are likely to have a common purpose and better understand each other. 

Read more: The Vital Role of Family Routines in Nurturing Healthy Family Relationships.

In conclusion 

Mental health problems significantly impact families. There is a critical need to shift the focus from merely addressing the individual struggling with a mental health problem to also seeing the experience of other family members affected by it. 

Therefore, equipping family members with the knowledge and skills to address mental health issues is critical.

By recognizing the signs of mental health problems, you can find effective strategies to approach and manage these challenges in a family setting. This improves the well-being of the whole family, more so for those who struggle with mental issues. Start breaking the silence of living with a mental illness in the family and ensure that every family member receives the support and understanding they deserve.

If you would like to see more resources on health management, check out the Family Science Labs. The lab uses the research of the Institute for Life Management Science to produce courses, certifications, podcasts, videos, and other tools. Visit the Family Science Labs today.

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The post Recognizing and Addressing Mental Health Issues in Family Members appeared first on Insights.

By recognizing and challenging these norms, society can work toward creating more equitable and respectful relationships. More than that, it will encourage you to take the necessary steps to combat the long-lasting physical and mental health impacts of domestic violence on women, children, and young family members who are at a higher risk of being exposed to violence. 

This article will help you learn about the role of gender norms in domestic violence and power imbalances in family relationships. Start reading to understand the seriousness of domestic violence and cultivate the desire to break the cycle. 

Understanding the link between gender norms and domestic violence

The World Health Organization once indicated that about one in three women worldwide are victims of sexual and physical violence in their lifetime. This violent act was often perpetrated by their intimate partner, followed by other immediate family members and relatives. 

Historically, men and women have socially distinct traditional roles in the household. Men have been commonly perceived as breadwinners, responsible for providing financially for the family. 

Meanwhile, women have been relegated to caregiving and domestic tasks. These traditional roles put women dependent on men, making it difficult for women to acquire social and economic sanctions against potentially abusive husbands or leave abusive family relationships. 

Recognizing traditional gender roles illuminates the root causes of domestic abuse that create power imbalances within family relationships. This understanding allows for more effective prevention strategies to be developed, targeting the underlying societal attitudes and beliefs that perpetuate violence.

Here are a few ways in which traditional gender norms can perpetuate domestic violence: 

Power imbalance

Traditional roles create a situation where men hold more power and control in the family structure, both economically and socially. This condition often generates a sense of entitlement and superiority, leading to beliefs that they have the right to assert control over the subordinate gender, especially women. Meanwhile, women are often expected to remain passive, nurturing, and submissive. 

When a man believes that he is entitled to power and control in a relationship, he may resort to violent acts. This includes physical abuse, emotional manipulation, and economic coercion to maintain his power.

On the other hand, women may be more likely to tolerate or excuse the abuse, as she is in a dependent relationship with her husband, who provides her with the resources necessary for a living. 

Normalization of violence

Traditional gender norms that are deeply entrenched in society may normalize and excuse abusive behavior, particularly towards women.

The condition that entitles men with more power and control over social and economic resources is reinforced through the socialization of gender expressions. For example, men are often expected to be assertive, dominant, and in control. In contrast, women are dictated to be accommodating and passive. 

Abusive acts are not perceived as violating individual well-being and rights but are rather accepted as a part of daily life. As a consequence, aggressive behavior might be justified and seen as a normal component in a relationship involving men and women.

Impact on help-seeking behavior 

Even though domestic violence has existed for a long time, numerous barriers make it difficult for the victims to seek help. The barriers include low educational status, unemployment, and economic dependence. 

A study shows that women with better employment status had higher levels of help-seeking behavior due to their ability to generate income and pay out of pocket to seek help. 

Women who are not working and less educated than their husbands are less likely to seek help. In this context, gender norms that shape women’s access to resources, education, and employment can impact their tendency to seek help when subjected to domestic violence. 

Challenging traditional gender norms 

Traditional gender norms reinforce unequal power dynamics between genders, especially between men and women. By challenging these norms and promoting equality between genders, there will be a greater emphasis on mutual respect and understanding within a relationship, preventing the likelihood of domestic violence. 

Below are things that can contribute to breaking the cycle of domestic violence and prevent future generations from engaging in or tolerating domestic violence.

Promoting gender equality

Preventing domestic violence is possible if the fundamental norms that give birth to gender inequality are addressed. As traditional gender norms have profound impacts on the behaviors that women and men are expected to do, gender inequality enhances the risk of conducting violence by men against women. 

You can take part in promoting gender equality by first being aware of gender stereotypes and how they can lead to violence. Stay informed so that you can educate others about it.

You can promote gender equality starting with your own family. For example, start by simply sharing domestic responsibilities across genders so that these duties do not fall only on a specific gender, especially women. 

Early education and awareness

Education plays a critical role in helping students, especially children and young people, to raise awareness of domestic abuse as a criminal act and thus prevent abusive tendencies later in life. 

The content of the education curriculum may cover a wide range of topics that assist children and young people in better understanding domestic violence, its contributory factors, signs, and how to address domestic violence properly. 

The curriculum may include topics such as gender equality, healthy relationships, consent, and communication skills that can equip students with the right knowledge early on. 

As a family, you can help your children raise awareness of domestic violence and better understand how to prevent it by allowing them to engage in activities that foster empathy and respect. 

For example, you can read your children a book that addresses themes such as consent, respect, and boundaries in relationships. You can even watch a movie that depicts a character who addresses conflict in nonviolent ways. 

Community support services

Communities play a pivotal role in supporting domestic violence survivors and encouraging those who are exposed to violence to seek help. 

Research has shown that domestic violence is strongly associated with poor psychological and physical health, as well as lowered overall quality of life.

Community support services usually offer valuable opportunities for domestic violence survivors to improve their well-being. They often offer counseling services, advocacy, court support, and other necessary assistance. This kind of support is vital in helping survivors navigate the challenges they face, providing them with resources to break free from abusive situations and rebuild their lives. 

Promoting access to community support services can further aid domestic violence survivors in acquiring opportunities to increase positive outcomes for them.

You can promote access to community support by involving yourself in a community service directed at domestic violence survivors. You can offer a variety of ways to help, including volunteering, making a financial contribution, and donating necessary items, just to name a few. 

Engaging men and boys

This is a key strategy for preventing the perpetuation of domestic abuse. Engaging men and boys in violence prevention refers to any effort that looks into the underlying causes of men and boys’ violence, including social and structural ones, men and boys’ gender socialization, and men’s sexism. 

Men and boys help prevent domestic violence by first recognizing how societal norms dictate masculinity and how it contributes to the perpetuation of domestic violence.

By recognizing the toxicity rooted in traditional masculinity, they are encouraged to challenge traditional gender norms that have long been the primary causes of domestic violence. 

Start encouraging positive role modeling in your family by highlighting men who are advocates for gender equality. You can share stories with your partner, children, and other family members about the seriousness of domestic violence and how to tackle its roots. 

In conclusion

Domestic abuse remains a significant threat to the safety and well-being of marginalized genders, especially women. Rooted in unequal power relations and social expectations of dominance and submission, traditional gender norms perpetuate abusive behavior. 

As a result, these outdated norms cause harm to the survivors and perpetuate cycles of violence across generations. 

To effectively combat domestic violence, dismantle the harmful gender norms in the first place. Promote gender equality through education, advocacy, and systemic change. Foster environments that prioritize mutual respect and autonomy within relationships.  

Stand together to promote healthy relationships based on mutual respect, consent, and support. Then, you can help build a society in which everyone can live free from the fear of violence and coercion in their own homes.

If you would like to see more resources on domestic violence, check out the Family Science Labs. The lab uses the research of the Institute for Life Management Science to produce courses, certifications, podcasts, videos, and other tools. Visit the Family Science Labs today.

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Marriage goes beyond mere legal union. It also means being spiritually, physically, and emotionally united with the love of your life. Within marital life, you will share responsibilities, commitment, and mutual understanding that are necessary for a stable and fulfilling marriage. Therefore, preparing for marriage and ensuring that you are ready to navigate married life together with your partner is critical. 

Preparing for marriage can be intricate. You and your partner will experience challenges. These can arise in many ways, including financial, emotional, and interpersonal issues. Failing to address them results in significant stress and damage to the relationship, creating future marital challenges and hindering your ability to build a strong foundation for a successful marriage. 

Thus, this article will help you identify common challenges during marriage preparation. Read more about various obstacles and strategies for overcoming them. 

Common challenges in marriage preparation

Before learning ways to overcome challenges, you should know the potential obstacles that may arise. Understanding these will help you and your partner approach marriage preparation with foresight. 

Here are potential challenges that couples may face when preparing for marriage:

Financial challenges

Getting ready for marriage includes financial readiness. This refers to your financial stability and ability to manage financial affairs. 

Marriage prep can unearth challenges related to financial readiness and stability. These could include discovering that your partner has debt and unexpected bills or knowing that you both have different approaches to savings, investments, and money spending. Couples can also struggle with aligning their financial goals and priorities, such as saving for a house, retirement, or starting a business once they enter married life. 

Read more: The Essential Role of Financial Well-Being in Marriage Planning 

Emotional challenges

Marriage preparation is a process where contradictory emotions, such as excitement, fear, anxiety, and anticipation co-exist. Some people may experience doubts about long-term commitment: they are fearful of entering into marriage as marriage is meant to be lifelong, and once they enter into a marriage union, it cannot be easily broken.

As a consequence, they tend to pay more attention to their and their partner’s shortcomings, mostly about being good partners and parents in the future. 

These doubts can stem from various conditions, including childhood trauma and an individual’s family background.

For example, a study found that men from divorced families, when having a relationship with women from similar family backgrounds, showed difficulties in trusting their partner’s honesty. Women from divorced families also reported less trust and satisfaction and perceived more conflict and negativity toward their relationships. These kinds of doubts create struggles with trusting each other, leading to fear of marriage. 

Interpersonal challenges

Marriage preparation marks a significant transition in your relationship as you and your partner move from being individuals to part of a lifelong, committed relationship. This transition can bring uncertainties, anxieties, and significant changes in your relationship dynamic that lead to interpersonal challenges. 

When preparing for marriage, you may find that you and your partner have different values, priorities, and expectations regarding building a future together. Because of these differences, you and your partner may struggle in the decision-making process, leading to misunderstandings and unresolved conflicts. 

For example, one partner may prioritize parenthood after getting married while the other values career advancement. Additionally, family expectations, cultural differences, and religious reasons may further complicate the decision-making process during marriage preparation, as couples feel that they must adhere to certain kinds of traditions and norms. 

Read more: Traversing Cultural Expectations: Balancing Family Values and Individual Readiness for Marriage 

Overcoming common challenges in marriage preparation

Knowing strategies to overcome challenges during marriage preparation can help you and your partner deal better with challenges. This can promote a preparation process that can support relationship growth and lay a strong foundation for your readiness to marry. 

Below are some steps in marriage preparation as strategies to overcome challenges when preparing for marriage:

Create a financial plan 

When money-related challenges arise, you can create a financial plan with your spouse-to-be. Financial planning during marriage preparation means engaging in discussions and actions related to managing finances. It encompasses topics such as wedding expenses, future savings after marriage, spending habits, investments, and more. 

Creating a financial plan before marriage is important because it aligns you and your partner’s future goals, ensures financial stability, helps in determining money spending, and sets the strategies for joint goal-setting. It also fosters open communication, collaboration, and trust in your relationship. 

When creating a financial plan together, you and your partner are encouraged to first understand each other’s financial situation, such as by sharing information about debts, assets, and past financial events. You can initiate conversations on financial expectations, how to manage finances, spending tendencies, and priorities in life. 

Build emotional resilience

Marriage requires individuals to have a deep understanding of themselves, their values, goals, strengths, and weaknesses. Having a deep understanding of oneself involves self-awareness and introspection, which can allow you to enter married life with a clear sense of who you are and what you want from a long-term partnership. 

You and your partner may consider attending premarital counseling to support the journey of developing emotional resilience. Premarital counseling can help you better understand your partner, including their values, expectations, trauma, and priorities, and how these aspects impact each other’s lives. 

Other than premarital counseling, you can also learn about stress management techniques by practicing mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing to help you manage stress and anxiety due to challenges you may encounter when preparing for marriage. When you are equipped with these techniques, you can enhance your coping skills and approach marriage preparation with greater confidence and ease. 

Read more: The Stress Detox: Reclaiming Well-Being in a Hectic World 

Nurture healthy interpersonal relationships

Effective communication is pivotal in discussing differences and resolving interpersonal conflicts before and even after marriage. It acts as a preventive measure before the differences escalate to major conflict. 

When you and your partner are experiencing interpersonal relationships during marriage preparation, both of you should initiate open discussion and approach the communication with a willingness to understand each other’s point of view rather than win arguments. 

Process your feelings first before initiating discussions with your partner and then choosing the right time to talk. Begin the conversation with “I” statements to avoid feelings of accusation. While you may disagree with your partner’s arguments, try to listen to them carefully and attentively so that you can understand why they think and feel the way they do. 

In conclusion

Marriage preparation is the initial step for building a successful and fulfilling union. It is a process that can help you prepare for and navigate the challenges of being married. Given the importance of marriage preparation in helping you and your partner lay a strong foundation for married life, both of you should be equipped with the ability to navigate the preparation process. 

As a process, marriage preparation reflects the married life itself: it may be filled with excitement and joy, with unpleasant surprises and unexpected challenges that you may never think of. The unpleasant surprises and unexpected challenges may come in various forms, including differences in values and priorities, unresolved trauma, and communication problems between you and your partner. 

Take the time to communicate openly about your concerns, expectations, and fears related to marriage, and commit to understanding each other’s perspectives. By actively engaging in the preparation process, you can lay a strong foundation for your future together. Start your journey towards a successful marriage today!

If you would like to see more resources on readiness, check out the Family Science Labs. The lab uses the research of the Institute for Life Management Science to produce courses, certifications, podcasts, videos, and other tools. Visit the Family Science Labs today.

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While every great childbirth experience is unique, positive childbirth itself can generally be understood as ensuring the emotional and physical well-being of the birthing person and their partner during labor and delivery. 

Positive childbirth may increase the mother’s self-esteem and self-efficacy after giving birth. It also contributes to positive family attachment. In contrast, families who experience traumatic childbirth may suffer from prolonged psychological distress and parents-infant bond disorders, which negatively affect family well-being. 

This article will delve into the profound impacts of a positive childbirth experience on family well-being. To help expectant parents achieve positive childbirth, it will also provide empowering insights and practical tips, illuminating the path to stronger bonds, resilient parenting, and a joy-filled family journey.

Positive childbirth effects on the mother

The childbirth experience leaves life-long and vivid memories for the mother who gives birth. Knowing how a positive birth experience benefits mothers encourages expectant mothers and the whole family to develop strategies for supporting maternal well-being and overall family health. 

Below are the emotional and psychological implications of pleasant childbirth on the birthing mother.

Emotional well-being

Some key characteristics of a positive birth experience, such as being mentally and physically prepared for birth and feeling supported and safe during the entire process, positively affect the birthing person’s emotional well-being.

Positive childbirth results in satisfaction, a sense of accomplishment, and self-confidence in a mother’s physical and emotional capacity. Having a pleasant childbirth also contributes to more positive feelings toward motherhood and lower levels of parenting stress and anxiety after giving birth. 

Physical well-being 

Giving birth also presents significant physical challenges for the mother. Therefore, physical comfort during labor and delivery critically influences labor pain. 

Continuous support during labor is associated with shorter labor and reduced requirements for analgesia. Physical comfort assists the birthing mother in managing physical pain and having some degree of pain relief during labor, thus reducing maternal distress and enhancing childbirth progress. 

Positive childbirth effects on the baby

The childbirth experience could significantly affect the relationship between parents and their infants following birth. A positive childbirth benefits the mother’s well-being and brings long-term health benefits for the newborn. Here are a few ways it can manifest.

Bonding and attachment

Positive childbirth enables stronger parent-infant bonding. Parent-infant bonding refers to the emotional connectedness between parents and their infants.

A perceived traumatic childbirth may negatively affect the quality of parent-infant attachment after birth. The weaker parent-infant bonding experience is related to greater parenting stress, which in turn is associated with parents’ responsiveness to the infant’s needs. 

Long-term health benefits

A positive childbirth increases the likelihood of early breastfeeding initiation and skin-to-skin contact after delivery. Newborns who have skin-to-skin contact with their mother right after delivery are more likely to breastfeed successfully.

Breastfeeding itself is crucial for the newborn’s survival and development. It may decrease the risk of childhood illnesses and is associated with intelligence development. Having prolonged skin-to-skin contact also improves the baby’s breathing pattern and supports healthy sleep. 

Impacts on family well-being 

Besides the birthing mother and the newborn, a positive childbirth experience also brings worthwhile impacts on general family well-being. A positive birth experience can strengthen family bonds and lay the foundation for the family’s emotional resilience through the following methods: 

Strengthening family bonds

Continuous support during labor is an essential aspect of positive childbirth. Going through the childbirth process together can deepen the emotional connection, especially between you and your partner. 

If your partner is actively involved in the birthing process, it will help them understand your needs and ensure you feel emotionally comfortable during labor and delivery. This condition contributes to a strong sense of unity, making you feel that you are going through the birthing process together as a family. 

Emotional resilience

Experiencing a positive childbirth experience together can promote a sense of security and stability. Feeling supported and safe when going through the birthing process can lay a strong foundation of trust and security within your family. 

This sense of security is essential for your family’s emotional resilience, providing a solid base when facing difficult times. 

Tips for achieving a positive childbirth experience

Given the positive impacts of having a pleasant childbirth, feeling confident in your ability to navigate the childbirth process is of paramount importance.

Through these tips, you and your family can approach the birthing process with adequate preparedness and a sense of empowerment.  You can follow these strategies for achieving a positive birth experience: 

Developing a comprehensive birth plan

Creating a birth plan promotes a more positive birth experience. A birth plan is a written outline of preferences when you are in labor and about to give birth. This written summary consists of your preferences list for positions when you give birth, the kinds of pain relief you prefer (if you need it), and the person you would like to accompany you during labor.

A birth plan tells the healthcare professionals what is important to you and your preferences during labor and delivery. 

Building a support network 

Social support during childbirth improves the whole birth experience. Mothers who receive adequate support during childbirth experience fewer childbirth complications and are less likely to experience postpartum depression.

Therefore, having labor companionship is critical to facilitate a pleasant childbirth. You can start telling your family about the need for support during delivery and labor. Tell them their companionship is important to you, what kind of support you need, and how you would like to be supported during childbirth. 

Other than support from family and friends, engaging in ongoing communication with healthcare providers also creates strong support networks during labor and delivery. Ongoing communication with professionals promotes empowerment and collaboration during the process, reducing distress and enhancing the progression of childbirth. 

Read more: Why New Parents Will Need a Family Support System? 

Seeking professional guidance

Seeking professional guidance from a qualified and competent resource can help you understand childbirth options and delivery and labor expectations. You can ask midwives, general practitioners, obstetricians, doulas, and a combination of healthcare professionals. This strategy can help you create a condition that supports your readiness for childbirth.  

Attending childbirth education classes is also worth considering when aiming for a positive experience. These programs can assist you and your family make informed decisions surrounding childbirth based on credible evidence. Additionally, attending these classes can also lessen your anxiety about the birthing process. 

In conclusion

A birth experience can become both a badge of pride and a wound. When childbirth becomes an experience of great happiness, it has profound impacts on family well-being.

A positive childbirth benefits both the mother and newborn, influencing their emotional and physical well-being. Furthermore, continuous support during labor also strengthens the family’s resilience and emotional bonds, contributing to long-term family well-being and healthy relationships. 

By recognizing these profound impacts, families are encouraged to take actions that can lay a strong foundation for achieving a positive childbirth experience. This can build their strength in the journey of parenthood.

If you would like to see more resources on childbirth, check out the Family Science Labs. The lab uses the research of the Institute for Life Management Science to produce courses, certifications, podcasts, videos, and other tools. Visit the Family Science Labs today.

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Following a traumatic event, such as experiencing disasters, it is imperative for families to develop the ability to anticipate, respond to, and recover from crises and challenges encountered in the aftermath of these experiences. This ability can be called “family disaster resilience,” referring to a family’s capacity to effectively prepare for, adapt, and endure in the face of adversity caused by a disaster. 

Given the adverse impacts of disasters on families, this article will discuss how a family can navigate the negative consequences caused by disasters and why developing family disaster resilience is critical. 

Understanding family disaster resilience

Resilience has been conceptualized in the context of individuals as well as in regard to the family unit. Understanding family resilience following a disaster may help you understand why some families can adapt, grow stronger, or bounce back to the way they were before a disaster. 

Indeed, some traumatic events, such as disasters, bring about loss, difficulties, and major disruptions in family income, housing, and overall stability. A family’s ability to develop successful functioning after a devastating event involves adaptation over time. After profound changes in living conditions caused by disasters, family resilience involves an ongoing process of maintaining family functioning especially in four basic areas: 

• membership (keeping the family intact) 
• educating and nurturing the young members of the family 
• taking care of vulnerable members (such as the young members, the sick, and the elderly)
• providing economic support

Family resilience supports the individual resilience of its members. Families that are resilient tend to share some common characteristics. These include: 

• having beliefs and attitudes that facilitate coping strategies
• trying their best to maintain rituals and routines with flexibility
• using effective communication to deliver information and express feelings
• showing adaptive problem-solving skills

Key components of family disaster resilience

As mentioned earlier, family disaster resilience is a family’s ability to anticipate, respond to, and recover from the adversity of disasters in a way that strengthens and maintains the family’s well-being and functioning. 

To develop family disaster resilience, it is critical for you and your families to understand what the key components of family disaster resilience are: 

Risk assessment and awareness

Understanding the risks and vulnerabilities of a region where the family lives constitutes this component of family disaster resilience. Being aware of potential hazards and how the multiple hazards could affect your families can help your families develop emergency plans that could minimize the negative impacts of disasters.

Disaster preparedness

Disaster preparedness refers to a family’s understanding of and knowledge about the steps that are needed to be taken for life survival and property protection during a disaster. Disaster preparedness helps families mitigate impacts and save resources that disasters can damage. 

Adaptability and flexibility 

Disasters bring significant changes in family lives. In this regard, being adaptable and flexible allows families to adjust plans and responses needed to ensure the family’s safety and well-being. 

Healthy coping strategies

Family disaster resilience includes positive coping strategies which may encompass problem-solving, cognitive restructuring, emotional calming, and social support. Positive coping strategies are important for a family’s long-term mental health and recovery from the negative effects of disasters. 

Community connection 

The role of a community is critical in disaster recovery and preparedness, particularly in the importance of local knowledge, participation, action, and control in disaster response. Local communities surrounding a family can offer a sense of connection and decrease the isolation and abandonment that is often felt in the aftermath of a disaster. 

Strategies for enhancing family disaster resilience 

Remember that family disaster resilience is a gradual process, and there are various strategies that a family can do to enhance resilience to disasters gradually: 

Develop a family emergency plan 

Create a comprehensive family emergency plan that consists of contact information, evacuation and communication strategies, and meeting locations. A family emergency plan can help families ensure everyone’s needs are met and prepare the family members to safely evacuate when a disaster happens. Ensure all family members understand and practice the plan. 

Prepare a family emergency fund 

It is important for families to plan their finances ahead to anticipate the cost of rebuilding after a disaster. It is recommended that families who live in a disaster-prone area make an agreement with the family members to put away a specific amount of money each month for the family’s emergency fund. 

Build social connectedness

Feeling socially connected is critical in developing family disaster resilience. For instance, families can develop a support network by connecting with a community organization to gain assistance in financial support, material goods, and services. Families can also reach out to other family members or professionals to talk about the disaster and how it makes them feel. Receiving support and the ability of a family to provide mutual support is one of the protective factors against the devastating impacts of experiencing a disaster. 

Restore daily routines

Once everyone in the family is in a secure and safe place, restoring the family’s daily routines helps a family build a sense of belonging and being home emotionally, even without a physical home after a disaster. Simple routines such as bedtime stories and family walks can gather the pieces of daily life back, despite disasters disrupting every aspect of family life. 

Benefits of family disaster resilience

Acquiring knowledge and its application in the realm of action is an effective way to reduce the adverse effects of disasters on families. Below are the benefits gained when a family successfully develops disaster resilience: 

• Family disaster resilience facilitates knowledge transmission to reduce the risk of disasters in the household. Individuals who are familiar with the concepts of hazards and disasters can respond faster and better when disasters occur. 
• Family resilience to disaster can reduce the risk of mental health disorders and maximize family resources such as social support, thereby buffering the negative outcomes of trauma. 

In conclusion

The importance of developing family disaster resilience should not be overlooked. Disasters bring about immense disruptions and challenges to family lives. By engaging in the process of building resilience, families can mitigate the detrimental effects of disasters, be more prepared, and be better equipped to face adversities, and thus gradually build successful family functioning following disasters. 

Family disaster resilience is an investment in the overall family well-being, safety, and stability. Through the transmission of knowledge, preparation, and collective effort, families can endure the challenges posed by disasters and build resilient and better futures for themselves.

If you would like to see more resources on disaster, check out the Family Science Labs. The lab uses the research of the Institute for Life Management Science to produce courses, certifications, podcasts, videos, and other tools. Visit the Family Science Labs today.

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Numerous types of contraceptives are available with their own effectiveness, practicality, and potential side effects. Therefore, choosing the best contraceptive method for you is a complicated decision. 

Given that a contraceptive method is a complicated decision, open communication involving relevant family members regarding contraceptive choices is paramount. Open communication enables families to make informed decisions on contraception. It provides an opportunity for knowledge sharing and exchanges of concerns and preferences that ultimately can lead families to achieve better reproductive health outcomes and overall well-being.

From this article, you will understand the types of contraceptive methods and factors influencing contraceptive choices that could help you make informed decisions on the best contraceptive method for you and your family. 

Types of contraceptive methods 

There is a wide variety of contraceptive methods available. Below are examples of contraceptive methods that might work best for you: 

Birth control pills

Birth control pills are a form of family planning method that uses hormones to prevent pregnancy. Containing a fuse of progesterone and estrogen hormones, birth control pills prevent ovulation. For the pills to work effectively, you have to take the pill once per day. Lighter periods, sore or swollen breasts, and a mild headache are the common side effects of birth control pills. 

Intrauterine Devices (IUD)

An IUD is another type of birth control used by placing the contraception inside your womb. There are two types of IUDs, they are the hormonal and the copper IUD.

Hormonal IUD

The hormonal IUD releases a progesterone hormone called “levonorgestrel” which prevents ovulation and makes it harder for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg. The side effects of hormonal IUD may include headaches or migraines, pelvic pain, and heavier periods. 

Copper IUD

Another type of IUD is the copper IUD, a T-shaped device that does not release hormones and is fitted in the womb. The copper IUD works by preventing sperm from surviving in the womb. Your periods may be longer and heavier with a copper IUD. 

Implants 

Implants are another type of birth control inserted under the skin, particularly on the inside of your arm. Implants release a hormone called “etonogestrel.” Etonogestrel is a progesterone hormone that can prevent pregnancy. After having the implant, you may experience soreness or bruising in your arm, followed by changes in your periods, such as lighter or longer-lasting periods. 

Vaginal ring

Vaginal ring is another hormonal birth control. It is a small plastic ring worn inside the vagina. The ring releases hormones that can stop ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, preventing sperm from entering the uterus.

A vaginal ring can be worn for 3 weeks, then removed for one week to allow bleeding. Most people have mild side effects from using a vaginal ring, such as breast tenderness, weight gain, nausea, and vomiting. 

Vasectomy

Vasectomy is a form of male birth control involving a surgical procedure to cut or seal tubes that carry sperm from a man’s testicles to the penis. Vasectomy is an effective and permanent way to prevent pregnancy and can rarely be reversed. Given its permanency, vasectomy might be the right contraceptive method for families who do not want to risk pregnancy in the future. 

Condoms

Condoms act as a physical barrier that prevents sperm and other body fluids (such as semen or blood) from entering the vagina, mouth, or anus. Hence, other than reducing the risk of pregnancy, a condom is also an effective method for couples to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) if used correctly during intercourse. 

From the various types of contraception mentioned above, it is evident that each contraceptive method has its own unique characteristics. Choosing the right contraception requires careful planning by weighing the risks and benefits that align with your needs and preferences. 

Factors influencing contraceptive decisions

Each individual and family may put different levels of importance on each factor that shapes contraceptive decisions. By understanding and identifying factors that may influence contraceptive decisions, you and your family can tailor your decisions based on credible information that aligns with your circumstances and reproductive goals. Below are factors you may consider when choosing a contraceptive method that is right for you:

Health and side effects considerations 

Every contraceptive method may have its own health risks. For example, oral contraceptives, such as birth control pills, can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, oral contraceptives can also reduce the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer and protect against pelvic inflammatory diseases. Another example is that IUDs that can serve as an effective contraceptive method are found to increase the risk of potential infection in certain high-risk groups. 

Regarding side effects, hormonal contraceptives can cause headaches, nausea, sore breasts, spotting between periods, and mood swings. Meanwhile, non-hormonal contraception can lead to irritation and allergies associated with devices in the vaginal canal. 

You can consider your tolerance levels for possible side effects and health risks by consulting with your doctor. The doctor may give you an opinion on how your choice of birth control might affect your health and thus advise you on the methods based on your medical history.  

Effectiveness in preventing pregnancies

The effectiveness of contraception depends on the type of contraception and whether or not you use it correctly. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective for everyone because each contraceptive method aligns differently with everyone’s needs and can also affect individuals differently. 

For example, birth control pills are a type of contraception that can be 99% effective only if you take the pills every day. You must integrate this method into your daily routine and take it consistently. Forgetting or delaying taking the pills can reduce the effectiveness to 93%. 

Convenience and ease of use 

You can also choose contraceptive methods for convenience and ease of use. Long-acting reversible contraception, such as IUDs and implants, can be a good choice if you want effective and lasting birth control without much maintenance. Long-term reversible contraception can prevent pregnancy for long periods of time once in place. 

Meanwhile, short-acting contraceptive methods, such as pills and condoms, rely more on consistent and correct use to maintain effectiveness. Short-acting contraceptive methods should be used or taken regularly. 

Partner preferences and communication

As a family, you may have different goals and preferences regarding family planning with your partner. Open communication with your partner allows you to align goals and decide on a method supporting your and your partner’s shared vision. Other than leading to shared decision-making, improved communication with partners about family planning can increase the use of contraception. 

Cultural and religious beliefs 

Cultural and religious beliefs also play a pivotal role in influencing couples’ acceptance and use of contraception. For instance, cultural and religious beliefs may shape your family’s understanding of sexuality, fertility, and desired family size and thus affect the decision on contraception that best aligns with the family’s beliefs. There is also a religious prohibition on some forms of birth control that may significantly affect a family’s decisions on contraception that are perceived as religiously acceptable. 

In conclusion

Family planning is a crucial aspect of reproductive health for individuals and families to achieve their desired number of children and spacing between pregnancies. Choosing the right contraceptive method regarding its effectiveness, potential health risks, and partner preferences should be carefully considered. These factors should be considered when deciding on contraceptive methods that best suit your circumstances and reproductive goals. 

Understanding the variety of contraceptive options available and factors that may shape contraceptive decisions may help you and your family make decisions that are well-informed, empowering you to prioritize your reproductive intentions and overall health. Families can surely take control of their family planning journey while maintaining harmonious relationships if they attain adequate knowledge, cultivate positive communication, and thoughtful consideration when choosing a contraceptive method that works best for them.

If you would like to see more resources on contraception, check out the Family Science Labs. The lab uses the research of the Institute for Life Management Science to produce courses, certifications, podcasts, videos, and other tools. Visit the Family Science Labs today.

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Family routines are a sequence of actions regularly followed by a family. A family routine describes familiar patterns or repetitive actions on which family members rely to organize their daily lives, get things done, and spend time together as a family. 

Beyond their practicality, family routines offer dedicated time for families to engage in shared activities and meaningful conversations, enabling them to establish a sense of stability and connect with each other on a deeper level.

Moreover, by maintaining consistent family routines, family members can cultivate essential skills, including time management, teamwork, responsibility, and discipline, that contribute to individual well-being and family functioning. 

This article explores the role of family routines in nurturing healthy family relationships and how a family can establish routines that suit them best. 

Benefits of family routines 

Family routines have a vital role in family life. However, as family routines are characterized by their ‘normalcy’ and repetitiveness, they often seem mundane, and their benefits can be easily taken for granted.

Still, family routines bring various benefits that contribute to healthy family relationships such as the following:

Improved communication and family bond

Having consistent family routines can promote improved communication within the family, as it involves complex and mutual interactions between family members. When creating and maintaining a family routine, family members must communicate with each other about who should do what, when, in what order, and how often. From there, a family can strengthen family bonds which may lead to family satisfaction. 

Enhanced time management

Greater regularity of family routines was also reported to be highly associated with better time management within a family as it provides the structure that allows family members to understand their responsibilities, when, and how to get things done effectively. 

Reduced stress

Other than having positive impacts on family relationships, engaging in consistent family routines also enables family members to develop healthy behaviors that are beneficial for each family member’s well-being. Engaging in family routines was found to buffer stress and help families develop resilience during stressful times, as family routines offer stability. 

Development of healthy behaviors

For children in the family, the existence of family routines has been shown to contribute to language development, social skills building, and academic achievement. Family routines can help children develop functional skills, including problem-solving, planning, and negotiation. These skills are strongly associated with success in academic and social settings. 

3 Simple ways to develop family routines 

Family routines are not one-size-fits-all. Every family may have unique routines depending on their situation. However, establishing family routines that are not suitable for your family can be daunting and only create more stress than their worth.

Below are ways how families can create routines that work best for them: 

Set realistic goals 

Engaging in family routines can be fun and a lot easier for the entire family if you set realistic expectations and goals for each routine. In order to set realistic goals, it is critical to make sure that you create a family routine that is appropriate to the age and developmental stages of your family members so that a routine can match each family member’s abilities. 

Include all family members 

Family routines should meet the needs of individual family members. Therefore, involving all family members in the process of establishing family routines is of paramount importance. 

It is vital for parents to discuss with each other before talking about routines with their children. Make sure that you are on the same page about the goals of family routines that you would like to establish. Parents can also consult with children to tailor a routine best suits them. 

Be adaptable to challenges and changes

In the effort to maintain consistent routines, family members may have conflicting schedules that make it more challenging for them to allocate dedicated time and maintain consistency in family routines. 

Families should remember that although family routines provide structure and predictability, maintaining flexibility and collaborative planning is no less important in ensuring routines work in the family. 

Being flexible to challenges and adjustments is important. This can be done by improvising, such as by communicating with family members to weigh alternatives, consider options, and make decisions in an attempt to restructure a family routine. 

In conclusion

Family routines play a pivotal role in nurturing healthy family relationships and family members’ well-being. Although family routines may appear mundane and trivial, these repetitive actions provide stability, structure, and opportunities for families to develop positive communication. 

The benefits of family routines extend in many areas. It can promote family satisfaction, buffer stress, and foster resilience during challenging times. Furthermore, having consistent family routines can also help family members, especially children, develop the skills necessary to achieve success in various areas of life. 

By tailoring a routine based on families’ specific needs and circumstances, families can create routines that work best for them and, thus, enhance family cohesion and overall well-being.

If you would like to see more resources on family routines, check out the Family Science Labs. The lab uses the research of the Institute for Life Management Science to produce courses, certifications, podcasts, videos, and other tools. Visit the Family Science Labs today.

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Due to changes in brain structure and function, substance-abusing individuals are prone to experience severe health conditions, such as cognitive impairment and mental disorders, including schizophrenia, anxiety, mood, and impulse-control disorders.

Although substance abuse is commonly seen as a problem of the individual, it also  affects the entire family since it is associated with destructive family behaviors, including child abuse and neglect, that put children at higher risk of experiencing injuries and somatic and psychiatric illness. 

Therein, families are negatively affected by substance abuse, and family-based intervention  is critical to reducing the harm to individual members and the whole family unit. 

This article will help you understand the importance of involving family members in the treatment process of individuals struggling with substance abuse and how family involvement can contribute to the successful outcome of substance abuse treatment. 

Family involvement in substance abuse treatment 

Family involvement in substance abuse treatment can improve treatment outcomes for the individual coping with substance abuse. In the case of alcoholism treatment, findings suggest that the involvement of family members in therapy significantly improves the engagement rates of alcoholic patients in their rehabilitation. 

The enhanced engagement rate is achieved by first engaging family members in treatment focused on education about addiction. 

It is then followed by encouraging the closest family members to express their concerns about substance misuse and how substance abuse impacts their life. From here, family members are prepared to confront the person with substance abuse and may advocate for the person to take on and adhere to a healing journey. 

Family intervention for substance abuse may also help families find strategies to develop open communication with individuals suffering from it. Open and consistent communication is a significant factor that can effectively reduce miscommunication, subsequent conflict, and the risk of relapse, improving the substance abuser’s and the family’s long-term life quality. 

When families are involved in substance abuse treatment, they can address their questions and concerns, which can help them change how they interact within the family and provide adequate support for a family member suffering from substance abuse. 

Supporting someone in substance abuse treatment

As recovery from substance abuse is a lifelong process, it requires daily work from family members to support their loved ones. Below are ways to support your loved one in substance abuse treatment:

Understanding substance abuse and addiction

Substance abuse may bring changes to the lives of family members connected with the substance abusers, including their relationships, finance, and overall well-being. 

As family members, understanding substance abuse will help you learn how to respond to these changes, set healthy boundaries, and find the most appropriate way to support your loved ones who suffer from substance abuse. 

Hatzel (n.d.) suggests that family members are also enabled to rebuild trust and healthy communication that can positively affect their loved one’s recovery process once family members understand substance abuse. 

Setting boundaries

Setting boundaries with the person who suffers from addiction can be an initial step to help them realize their condition and, thus, make them seek help for their addiction. 

Also, setting boundaries with the substance abuser will make it clear to them that you are not enabling them to take advantage of the family or even manipulate family members. For example, family members can try to say “no” to lending money to the substance abuser, which they will likely use for anything related to their addiction. 

Encouraging treatment participation

To encourage treatment participation, family members can try to communicate with the substance abuser about how detrimental substance abuse is to their well-being and future.

It is also crucial to be honest with them about how substance abuse has affected the well-being of other family members. After that, family members can share the benefit of participating in treatment and what attending a substance abuse treatment would be like. 

Practicing self-care

As a family member, it is crucial for you to remember that you cannot help a person cope with substance abuse in your family if you cannot even take care of your health and wellness. 

Practicing self-care can be as simple as having enough sleep, eating healthy meals, and practicing meditation and physical exercise to release negative thoughts and emotions. Consider connecting with community support groups that allow you to meet others in similar situations. 

3 Types of family therapy in substance abuse treatment

Family therapy in substance abuse can be understood as a group of treatment approaches designed to treat the entire family impacted by substance abuse rather than only treating an individual family member struggling with substance abuse. 

Family intervention for substance abuse treatment admits that individual substance abuse has the potential to harm other family members, and this issue may lead to negative consequences on a family level. 

Family therapy for substance abuse can take different forms. Several options for family-based intervention in substance abuse treatment are: 

Multidimensional Family Therapy (MDFT)

As its name suggests, MDFT for substance abuse views substance abuse as involving and affecting multidimensional factors. 

MDFT includes different treatment domains deemed interdependent, affecting and helping substance abusers develop alternative lifestyles for their well-being.

These domains are adolescents or the youth, the parents, other family members, extrafamilial systems of influence, or the external community (e.g., peer groups, schools, or child welfare). 

The main goal of MDFT is to improve individuals and family functioning, which, in turn, can reduce substance misuse and related behavioral problems.  

Family Behavior Therapy (FBT)

FBT for substance abuse is a family-based intervention that aims to promote positive communication, problem-solving skills, and stress management in the family affected by substance abuse. FBT accepts that family is a significant support network that can be integral to an individual’s recovery and treatment process.

Additionally, this therapy contains practical and skill-based intervention that typically involves sharing information, experience, and concerns between family members and the service user regarding their experience and problems related to substance abuse. 

Behavioral Couples Therapy (BCT)

This therapy can be another option for family therapy for substance abuse. This therapy is specially designed for couples suffering from substance misuse.

In addition, BCT’s purpose is to improve relationship functioning among couples seeking help for substance abuse-related problems. This therapy can be an excellent option for substance abuse treatment to help couples reduce and avoid domestic violence and emotional problems that can harm the couple’s children. 

In conclusion

The negative consequences of substance abuse are not limited to the person misusing substances; they also impact the family functioning of the substance abuser. As substance abuse is also a family problem, positive family involvement and intervention can play a critical role in achieving positive outcomes from substance abuse treatment and the recovery of the substance abuser. 

Family members themselves can also benefit from participating in the treatment process of substance abuse. Family involvement in substance abuse treatment can assist families in developing positive communication and gaining a better understanding of how to respond to the negative consequences of substance abuse, which can lead to better family functioning.

If you would like to see more resources on substance abuse, check out the Family Science Labs. The lab produces courses, certifications, podcasts, videos, and other tools based on the research of the Institute for Life Management Science. Visit the Family Science Labs today.

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For some, the transition to parenthood is a tricky time containing discomfort and fear, as the experience of adjustment is too overwhelming than expected. According to a study, mental health problems are common during pregnancy and after birth. These generally consist of anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a difficult birth and re-adjustment. 

New parents are prone to experience fatigue and lack of sleep and feel like they are losing control over their own lives and start to overlook their needs while looking after their babies.

Given the challenges of being new parents, support systems for parents are of paramount importance. This article will help you recognize the importance of having the family as a support system and how to provide support for new parents in your family. 

Why is it important to have the family as your support system?

Transition to parenthood marks a time of significant changes as you must adapt to the new routines, manage expectations, and redefine your roles and life goals as a couple, parents, and self. This adaptation process entails physical and psychological adjustment that may leave new parents in a state of increased vulnerability. 

Support from the family is an influential factor that contributes to how the transition is experienced. Research suggests that the bond between new mothers, their biological mothers, and mothers-in-law positively affects the new mothers as they gained confidence in going through a new role. 

In contrast, a lack of support and social connectedness with partners and other family members facilitates women’s postpartum depression, which leads to marital dissatisfaction and a poor maternal-infant bond. 

Although women are usually perceived as the leading actor in childrearing practices, male partners also have an equally important role to play. A father’s emotional and practical support can validate and lessen a mother’s emotional, physical, and societal burden in her first motherhood. Encouragement, companionship, guidance, and assistance in daily chores may create a sense of support and shared responsibility, signifying that you both are going through it together. 

The sense of going through the first parenthood together is pivotal, as negative experiences also exist among first-time fathers. First-time fathers were reported to face negative experiences in their first parenthood: frustration, anxiety, and helplessness due to the difficulties of repositioning themselves with their partners, child, and work. Hence, recognizing the father’s support system is no less critical. 

How to provide support for new parents? 

Having supportive family relationships helps new parents to deal better with stressful situations in their first parenthood. These are things you can do to establish support for new parents: 

Avoid giving unsolicited parenting advice

There is no single and absolute way of being ‘good’ parents. Adjusting to parenthood is a process of trial and error. It is an ongoing process of figuring out things that are best for the baby. Although giving advice may be an expression of care, giving unwanted advice may risk new parents feeling insecure during their adjustment to parenthood. 

Try not to burden new parents with things that you think they should do differently. So, keep your comments supportive when you are asked for suggestions. 

Give new parents baby essentials

Preparing baby gear might be overwhelming and, of course, costly. New parents may have their baby registry checklist, so it is a good idea to ask new parents about what baby items they need before purchasing any baby products for them. By asking them what they need, you avoid wasting your money on items that have already been prepared or given by others. Useful baby products will surely make day-to-day caregiving a lot easier. 

Offer practical help

Most new parents are concerned about looking after their babies instead of caring for themselves and the house. If you are close family members of the new parents— siblings, mother, father, or in-laws—it would be great to offer new parents practical help. You can offer to do the dishes or fold laundry. In doing so, new parents may not feel heavily exhausted by things going on at home, so they can focus on developing a bond with their infants. 

Encourage new parents to join parenting communities

New parents often need numerous sources of support. While the family support system is vital, sometimes it is also helpful for new parents to receive support from external support systems, such as new parents’ support groups. This connection helps new parents gain confidence, access relevant information on child health and parenting, and expand social networks with people in a similar stage of life. 

Supporting new parents from far away

Do not feel like you cannot help out new parents in your family when you live far away from them. The truth is that there are ways to provide support for new parents, although the distance prevents you from the day-to-day ways to help: 

Checking in on them

Checking in on new parents will make them feel you are there for them, although you cannot be there in person. If you think making a call or video call will add pressure to respond, you can send them a quick message by saying, “I have been thinking of you lately,” “I am around if you need to talk,” or you can tell them that they are doing a great job as parents. Remember to be a ‘virtual’ shoulder to lean on. 

Have a meal delivered

Most new parents may have little time to prepare food for themselves. Consider asking new parents what their favorite restaurants or meals are. Use delivery service applications to order, pay, and have a meal delivered to the new parents’ house. You are making it easier for the new parents to take care of themselves.

In conclusion

The early years of first parenthood are the most demanding in time and energy that could impact new parents’ physical and psychological well-being. Some days might be good, and some days might be more challenging than others. Given the ups and downs following the transition to parenthood, family is undoubtedly the primary source of support for new parents. 

Family support is essential for promoting new parents’ well-being, especially in transitional life events such as childbearing and childrearing. As a family, you can serve as a network of people giving a broad array of assistance to the new parents, ranging from emotional to material and practical support. You play a critical role in making new parents in your family feel heard and confident in carrying out parenting abilities.

If you would like to take your reading on childbirth further, check out the Family Science Labs. The lab uses the research of the Institute for Life Management Science to produce courses, certifications, podcasts, videos, and other tools and resources. Visit the Family Science Labs today.

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