Postpartum Depression: Navigating Mental Health Challenges in New Mothers

Postpartum Depression Maternal Mental Health Charity

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Postpartum depression, often shrouded in misunderstanding and stigma, is a silent struggle faced by many new mothers. With World Mental Health Day approaching, it’s important for us to inform ourselves about mothers’ mental and emotional well-being as opposed to passing judgment or looking the other way.

South Africa (09 October 2024) – It is Mental Health Awareness Month, and while the term “mental health” has come to be widely used, it is still a subject that is wildly misunderstood due to its complexities.

That is why we are so grateful for educational platforms such as the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) and experts who shed light on relevant mental health topics that can help us better understand our emotions, challenges, stresses and how we show up for our loved ones.

One of many important mental health topics is Postpartum Depression (PPD), which can so easily be considered as bad parenting or a lack of love or maternal instinct from a new mom.

A mother’s silent struggle

Motherhood is a beautiful journey for both the mum and her little one, but it is also a demanding, life-altering one that comes with a rollercoaster of other emotions, physical and hormonal changes, as well as unexpected challenges.

While trying to nurture a new baby, oftentimes, the mom is still required to show up for the different areas of her life as if she hasn’t undergone a major life change. Many can feel like being too tired, struggling or being overstimulated is a bad thing due to the pressures of being “a great mother” or failing to show up as one.

Touching on the topic of new moms navigating mental health challenges and the stigma attached to it, SADAG shared a Glamour article on insights into PPD by Dr Bavi Vythilingum, a psychiatrist specialising in women’s Mental Health at Netcare Akeso Kenilworth.

According to Vythilingum, the most common features of PPD are feeling down or low, feeling bad about yourself, not being able to bond with the baby, or not being interested in the baby.

“Women with postpartum depression are often seen as being bad mothers or not grateful enough for their new baby.

“It’s important to note that this is not true and the hallmarks of clinical depression, including feelings of apathy, helplessness and hopelessness, affect the mother’s ability to mother. Once perinatal or post-partum depression is identified, there are highly effective treatment options,” the psychiatrist says.
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Vythilingum also states that PPD can cause a lot of anxiety for mothers regarding their babies. It can lead to difficulty sleeping, even when the baby is asleep. They may feel low and apathetic, and this often hinders their ability to care for themselves and their child.

Breaking the stigma surrounding PPD

Many of us have heard about “childhood traumas” and Vythilingum also touches on how PPD can severely affect the mother’s children, particularly as they become young adults. So it is important to address the mother’s well-being to avoid a cycle of mental health issues in her family.

Love and care are key! The healthcare expert stresses the importance of loved ones supporting new moms experiencing PPD. This can look like seeking professional help from your obstetrician/gynaecologist or mental health professional.

They can provide a proper assessment and start treatment, helping mothers overcome this challenge and begin a journey of healing and resilience!