Help a Loved One

Finding out someone you care about is facing an unplanned pregnancy can feel overwhelming. You may wonder what to say, how to be supportive, or where to point them for help. The good news is you don’t have to have all of the answers. Just being there for them can make a huge difference.

At Ohana Beginnings, we’re here to support both moms and the people who love them.

How You Can Be Supportive

Here are some simple ways you can support a friend, sister, daughter, coworker, or neighbor facing an unplanned pregnancy:

• Listen without judgment. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is let her talk and know she’s heard.
• Offer encouragement. Remind her she is strong, she has options, and she doesn’t have to do this alone.
• Help with practical needs. Offer a ride to appointments, bring a meal, or help with errands.
• Share resources. Let her know about Ohana Beginnings and the services available to support her.
• Respect her decisions. The choices she makes are hers. Supporting her means walking beside her, not pressuring her.

How to Talk to Her

What to Say

If you’re not sure what to say, start simple. A few words of encouragement can mean the world:

• “I’m here for you, no matter what.”
• “You don’t have to go through this alone.”
• “We’ll figure this out together, one step at a time.”

Sometimes the smallest words bring the biggest comfort.

What Not to Say

Even with good intentions, some phrases can feel hurtful or overwhelming. Try to avoid things like:

• “How could you let this happen?”
• “You’ve ruined your life.”
• “You have to do ___.” (pressuring her into a decision)

Shame or pressure only makes her feel more alone. Focus instead on listening, encouraging, and reminding her she is loved.

Connect Her With Support

Ohana Beginnings offers a wide range of services from pregnancy and parenting support to therapy, childcare, adoption planning, and more.