Over the past years, mental health has been on everyone’s agenda. But what is mental health and why did it take a global pandemic to wake people up to its importance? The world health organization defines mental health as “a state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community”. Which is why when COVID hit, so many of us needed to focus more on mental health due to the anxiety of our new reality.

But also because we were stuck and for many months had not developed proper outlets for dealing with the stress of a global pandemic, not seeing loved ones but having to still operate and work every day of the week. For me mental health has always been at the forefront of everything that I do. As someone with a history of depression, and anxiety. I am well aware of the debilitating effects bad mental health can have on me. Which is why even though the pandemic started just after I had a baby. One thing I knew for sure was that i would have to be vigilant about my mental health. For me this meant going for walks when it was allowed with a mask every single day. Working out even for 15 minutes. And doing things that I love like cooking and watching my favorite TV shows and movies.

This was all good and well until I was hit with a wave of postpartum depression. something I had not prepared for and was not ready for. And despite my knowledge of depression, it still took me weeks and months to admit that I was actually depressed. I knew I had hit rock bottom, when even seeing my daughters gummy smile made me want to cry (and not happy tears). This was when i realized that I needed help and fast. As soon as I spoke to my husband and close friends about it, I was amazed at how supportive and understanding they were. Not only were they willing to step in when I simply couldn’t. But they didn’t judge me or make me feel like a bad person or worse, a bad mother.

Instead I felt supported, heard and understood which allowed the healing process to go by much quicker. And whilst I am still working on my mental health. One thing I know for sure is that in order to get help, one has to ask for it. And our communities, whether it be our partners, friends, family member’s or parents, need to be informed and equipped to help us. the same goes for us too. We too should educate ourselves so that if someone we love is depressed or has any mental health concerns we are able to act accordingly.

And whilst I know from experience that mental health is still a taboo subject in many homes and communities. I also can testify to the positive impact of being informed. And having those around you informed as well. One thing is for sure however and that is that mental health will always be an issue. In the age of social media, cultural and social expectations, and even television. We will always need to talk about it and stay informed. After all, it could be the difference between saving a life, or someone losing theirs.

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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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Living in rural areas or underdeveloped remote areas, one’s quality of life is highly affected compared to those who live in urbanized and developed areas. For women, who have just given birth for the first time (or the 9th time), it is difficult and in some rural areas, close to impossible to receive postnatal care and support needed to effectively care for both the infant and the mother. The effects of this lack of support, information, and care consequently lead to conditions such as postpartum depression going unnoticed and untreated.

I have a friend who gave birth to a beautiful baby girl three months ago and she called me shaking from anxiety and panic because she accidentally dropped her baby while holding her. She kept telling me how she felt like she was careless and not a good mother. Caring for a baby is not as easy as it might seem. There are so many questions one can ask. Questions like; Is the baby still okay? Am I feeding him/her enough? Am I doing things the right way? Am I even ready for this? It can be overwhelming and difficult.

What is meant by postpartum depression?

Although the birth of a child is considered a blessing and can bring joy and excitement. It can also, on many occasions aggravate overwhelming emotions of fear, guilty and anxiety. When a woman who has just given birth experiences symptoms of deep sadness, exhaustion, and feeling anxious in such a way that they obstruct the normal daily functioning of the mother (such as caring for themselves and the baby), it is referred to as a postpartum depression.

For some moms, the mild sadness, crying and stress may last for a few weeks. Or come and go like my friend’s symptoms. But for others, it is a battle that may affect them for an extended period. It is important to differentiate between postpartum depression that needs medical intervention and “baby blues”.  Baby blues refers to sadness due to lack of sleep, tiredness, and general anxiety that happens with most new mothers as they adjust to their new reality. Unlike postpartum depression however, the baby blues only last 1 to 2 weeks after birth. Whereas postpartum depression often lasts longer. And the symptoms are much worse. 

What are the risk factors?

Besides poverty or lack of social and/or healthcare support, which I mentioned earlier. Other contributing factors to this ailment include a history of depression before pregnancy or during the period of pregnancy, poor relationship with a partner, single marital status, pregnancy complications, low self-esteem, and low socioeconomic status.

Is postpartum depression preventable?

Like every other mental illness, you can reduce the risk of having postpartum depression by eliminating the risk factors. For example, preparing yourself (mentally and physically) for pregnancy and childbirth by seeking help and assistance can ease fear and anxiety.

Ask questions about anything and everything. Even if it may sound stupid or insignificant. Always find ways to educate yourself (using trusted sources). Exercising, getting sufficient sleep whenever possible, and eating nutritious food will help your body keep healthy and retain your confidence.

Treatment

Unlike Baby blues or postpartum blues that only need reassurance or talking therapy.  Postpartum depression is a serious disorder and needs medical intervention. In most severe cases, affected mothers require hospitalization as part of the treatment and/or therapy.

What to do if you recognize the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression in yourself or someone close to you?

One of the contributing factors to postpartum depression is lack of support. Therefore, the first thing you would want to do is to assure the mother that you are there for her. While doing so, just like any other mental health disorder, be careful not to use a judgmental tone or to draw conclusions or to diagnose her. Some of the recommended ways to support the affected mother who has postpartum depression as outlined by Lisa Coxon are:

• Make it about her not the baby.
• Stop trying to solve her problems.
• Offer to go to the doctor’s appointments with her.
• Don’t ask what you can do, just do it if you can and where you see the need.
• Celebrate her success. Even small ones.

Endnote

Bringing a human being into the world alone is a big victory.  You should already be proud of yourself. Also remember that as familydoctor.org points out “your body has just done one of the most remarkable things it will ever do: grow another human being. After 9 months of waiting, you are probably excited to finally be home with your new baby. Much of your focus and energy during the coming weeks and months will be on the baby but remember that you also need to take care of yourself, too”.

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