Cultivating a strong support system can be difficult. It is not easy to make new friends in adulthood, and this can ring especially true if you are expecting. Many moms-to-be experience feelings of isolation and loneliness during pregnancy, due to different factors like exhaustion or change in lifestyle habits. One study even reported that maternal loneliness can lead to depression and adversely affect children’s health later on.
Socializing is a fundamental part of the human condition. We are biologically wired to crave community, so feeling connected to others is critical for a mom’s health as well as her baby. But how do you make these friendships? It can feel intimidating to put yourself out there—that is why group classes and outings are a great option to explore. They are fun, engaging, and take the pressure off of meeting someone one-on-one.
Here are some ways to expand your circle. Note: Some of these options are available exclusively for pregnant women, while others are open to everyone.
- Join a local walking group like The Mom Walk Collective. You can get your steps in while making new friends!
- Become a part of the prenatal yoga community. North Shore Wellness Collective offers affordable classes for all stages of pregnancy and into early childcare. Educational classes are also an option they offer, covering a range of topics from finance to mental health.
- Partake in a social swim! Milwaukee County Aquatics has a variety of water programs meant for expectant or postpartum moms. Swimming is an excellent low-impact activity for pregnancy, because it relieves pressure and reduces swelling.
- If you already have little ones, consider bringing them to a music listening program. Music Together North Shore and Wisconsin Conservatory of Music offer early education programs that introduce infants to helpful musical skills. Through their attendance, they learn how to recognize pitch and improve their sensory awareness using shakers and other hand-held instruments. Additionally, WCM offers an experience where moms-to-be can collaborate with music teachers to create a lullaby for their future children. This is through their role as a Lullaby Project Partner, a program which was created by Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute.
- Take part in a social group like Babbling Babes. In this moms-only group, women meet for coffee dates, volunteer together, and go to book clubs. The gatherings are free, happen regularly, and foster meaningful friendships.
- Attend a crafting event at Milwaukee Public Library—although not designed specifically for mothers, this could be a nice way to enrich your circle while learning a new skill!
- Spark or stoke a love for reading with a book club. Boswell Book Company hosts free ones that meet regularly (also not specific to pregnancy but could be of value).
- Join a prayer group through your local church. Many churches offer ones specifically for moms.
