Of all the things that could go wrong during and after having a baby. Depression, or rather postpartum depression was the last thing that I thought could affect it. Not because I thought I was immune to this commune depression that affects millions of women around the world. But because I had prepared myself and my husband and done everything I could NOT to have it. But try as I light. Nothing prepared me for the whirlwind of emotions that women experience after having birth. Mix that in with the constant worry and the sleepless night and I found myself frustrated, questioning my decision to be a mother but most of all feeling exhausted and overwhelmed by it all.

What is postpartum depression

The centre for disease control or CDC as it is more commonly known describes postpartum depression as “…depression that occurs after having a baby. Feelings of postpartum depression are more intense and last longer than those of “baby blues,” a term used to describe the worry, sadness, and tiredness many women experience after having a baby. “Baby blues” symptoms typically resolve on their own within a few days”. The CDC estimates that one in ten women experiences postpartum depression. But even with this overwhelming number. It is often overlooked and not often spoken about. In part because women like myself are ashamed t admit that they have or have had it.

Signs and symptoms of postpartum depression

• Crying more often than usual.
• Anger
• Withdrawing from loved ones.
• Feeling numb or disconnected from your baby.
• Worrying that you will hurt yourself or your baby.
• Feeling guilty about not being a good mother

Whilst these are only some of the symptoms of postpartum depression. It is important to note that like many mental health conditions. The symptoms may vary from person to person. The important thing to note is how you feel everyday. And if you feel off for longer than a few days, speak to a doctor and see what treatment options are available.

Who is at risk for postpartum depression?

• Young mothers
• Women who had trouble conceiving
• Women with a history or family history of depression
• Women who gave birth to babies preterm
• Moms of multiples like twins, triplets etc
• Not having adequate support
• Mothers of babies who have to hospitalized

Like the symptoms. The above list is just a guide line. And women without any of these underlying issues can also have postpartum depression. Which is why it is important to know the signs and know that you are not alone and can get the help you need. Especially as postpartum depression, like other types of depression is treatable.

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Over the past few months, we at She Evolves have been looking at how we can step up our game, add more value and share more with you our loyal readers. One idea that kept coming up was amplifying women’s voices. Women like you, our friends, family, mothers, aunts, coworkers etc. It is after all the foundation onto which She Evolves was built. And so when it came down to it, the only logical thing was for us to bring our conversations that we usually have as a team to you. On your smart phones, tablets and laptops. Frank conversations about issues we all face as women. And especially women of color.

And so “In her own words” was born. A guided conversation with psychologist and She Evolves friend and Natasha Naggan. “In her own words” hopes to amplify in real time issues, thoughts and ideas often left unsaid. It is a safe space. A space to learn and grow together. But also get information and answers to questions. But at the core of it “In her own words” is a microphone for us all. A space to amplify the voices of women around the globe who are often left out of the conversation. To say that YOU ARE NOT ALONE, YOU ARE NOT UNWORTHY and YOU ARE HEARD and SEEN.

So as we prepare to launch our series in the coming weeks, date to be confirmed. I hope you find the discussions informative, enlightening and of worth. And as always if we miss the mark or speak to you in any way, please contact us and feel to engage with us on our social media pages or on here on our website. And know that even if it may take us some time to get back to you. Your voice and your opinion matters to us. And we are always open to any and all comments that serve to move our community and understanding forward.

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