You already know that having someone to talk to can make a bad day better—but did you know that social support can actually improve your health? A study looking at new moms revealed something powerful: feeling understood, not judged, and simply not alone made a huge difference in their mental wellbeing.
Researchers explored programs designed to help childbearing women, especially those going through tough times like relationship violence or post-baby stress. They looked at two types of support:
- “Befrienders” who offered simple companionship and conversation
- “Mentor mothers” who supported women dealing with intimate partner violence
Guess what the moms said helped the most? It wasn’t advice. It wasn’t medical info. It was feeling heard, valued, and like someone genuinely cared.
Here’s the takeaway for all of us—support doesn’t always have to come from professionals. Real, everyday people like you and me can be that person who makes a difference. Whether it’s checking in on a friend, offering to listen (without fixing), or just being present, your time and kindness matter.
Want to help improve someone’s health? Start by being there.
