Calm and NCT: A Partnership for Postpartum Wellness

Calm and NCT: A Partnership for Postpartum Wellness

The journey of motherhood, while undeniably beautiful, can also be a challenging one. The early days of parenthood, marked by sleepless nights, hormonal fluctuations, and societal expectations, can take a significant toll on a new mother’s mental and physical health.

Prioritising Maternal Mental Health

Postpartum mental health is a critical issue that often goes overlooked. The emotional and physical demands of motherhood can lead to conditions like postpartum depression and anxiety. By providing essential support, Calm and NCT are empowering new mothers to prioritise their mental well-being.

To address this pressing issue and in an effort to highlight maternal mental health this winter, Calm, the leading mental health company, has joined forces with the National Childbirth Trust (NCT), the UK’s leading charity for parents. This partnership aims to provide vital support to new mothers during their postpartum journey.

A Holistic Approach to Postpartum Care

Recognising the multifaceted nature of postpartum challenges, Calm and NCT have designed a comprehensive support program in order to provide new mothers the gift of time and peace of mind. This initiative includes:

• Nutritional Support: Calm is providing 1,000  nutritious COOK meals to new parents in need. This practical gesture alleviates the burden of meal preparation, allowing new mothers to focus on their own well-being and bond with their babies.
• Free Access to Calm: Recipients of the Baby Bundles will also receive complimentary access to Calm’s app, offering soothing Lullabies and Soundscapes to aid in relaxation and sleep.
• Supporting NCT’s Infant Feeding Line: Calm’s donation will help fund the NCT’s 24/7 Infant Feeding Line, providing crucial support and advice to new parents, particularly during the challenging early weeks. 94% of callers have reported feeling less isolated ​upon speaking to a counsellor, 88% agreeing their mental wellbeing had improved, ​and 87% feeling more confident about feeding their baby.*
• Mindful Practices: Calm is offering free access to its Postpartum Healing series for the month of December, which features guided meditations, breathing exercises, and soothing soundscapes designed to alleviate stress and anxiety.

The Power of Mindfulness in Postpartum Recovery

As Dr. Chris Mosunic, Calm’s Chief Clinical Officer, emphasises, postpartum recovery is a unique journey for every mother. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, have been shown to be effective in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. 

By incorporating these techniques into their daily routine, new mothers can cultivate a sense of calm and peace, even amidst the chaos of early parenthood. Calm’s Postpartum Healing series offers a variety of mindfulness practices tailored to the specific needs of new mothers. These practices can help to:

• Reduce stress and anxiety: By calming the mind and body, mindfulness can help to alleviate feelings of overwhelm and worry.
• Improve sleep quality: Regular mindfulness practice can lead to better sleep, which is essential for both physical and mental health, as well as for both parents and babies.
• Enhance mood: Mindfulness can help to boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
• Strengthen the bond with baby: By practicing mindfulness, new mothers can become more attuned to their baby’s needs and develop a deeper bond.

The Importance of Community and Support

In addition to mindfulness practices, social support is crucial for postpartum well-being. Connecting with other new mothers can provide a sense of belonging, understanding, and encouragement. The NCT’s Infant Feeding Line offers not only practical advice but also emotional support, helping new mothers to feel less isolated and alone.

Breaking the Stigma Surrounding Postpartum Mental Health

Postpartum mental health is a serious issue that affects millions of women worldwide. However, it is often stigmatised and misunderstood. By raising awareness and reducing stigma, we can encourage more women to seek help and support.

Both Calm and the NCT are committed to breaking the stigma surrounding postpartum mental health. By providing accessible and effective support, they are helping to create a more compassionate and understanding society, ensuring a brighter future for both mothers and their children.

*Insights taken from NCT’s 2024 Annual Report