Beyond World Breastfeeding Week: Let’s Continue Seeing Mothers

As World Breastfeeding Week comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the conversations we have shared over the past seven days.

This week has reminded us that breastfeeding is about more than nutrition. It is about the wellbeing of mothers, babies, families and communities.

We celebrated breastfeeding mothers, recognised the importance of maternal mental health, and created space for women whose journeys have been marked by infertility, pregnancy loss, stillbirth, neonatal loss and infant loss.

These reflections have reinforced one important truth: motherhood is not one story.

Every mother’s journey is unique. Some experience joy from the very beginning. Others encounter challenges that few people ever see. Some continue parenting with children in their arms. Others continue loving children who live only in their hearts.

As a Social Worker and Grief Psychotherapist, I have learned that healing begins when women feel seen, heard, and supported. Sometimes, the most meaningful intervention is not having the perfect words but simply being present.

As we move beyond this awareness week, my hope is that we continue advocating for maternal mental health, strengthening support systems for mothers, and building communities where no woman feels invisible because her story unfolded differently.

Awareness campaigns end.

Motherhood does not.

May we continue asking mothers how they are doing. May we continue offering practical support. And may we remember that caring for mothers is one of the greatest investments we can make in healthier families and stronger communities.

To every mother, wherever you are on your journey, thank you.

Your strength inspires us.

Your love matters.

And your story deserves to be heard.