Maternal Mental Health Month

A mental illness is an illness or disorder that emotionally drains a person or prevents a person from participating in everyday affairs “normally”. The most vulnerable and crucial time for a mother is when she is pregnant and the first few weeks after giving birth to a child, both physically and mentally. We, as a society, often overlook or overestimate our women’s self-esteem and mental tolerance- blame the patriarchy. May is a month where we focus on the mental health of women during prenatal and postpartum periods and spread awareness and provide support for the same. 

Reportedly, one out of seven women experiences depression during their pregnancy and also following the birth of a child. A study by the University of Essex stated that due to the spike in COVID-19 cases followed by the worldwide lock down, there has been an increase in depression in expectant mothers. The study reported a jump from 17% to 47% depression and 37% to 60% anxiety in mothers bearing children. 

It is common for women to experience a feeling of sadness and moodiness that involves crying, irritability, anxiety and restlessness after giving birth. This is known as “Baby Blues”. These symptoms are common and may not need any psychological treatment, but when these feelings of sadness and anxiety escalate and hinder a woman from performing everyday tasks, then one needs to get psychological help before it gets any worse. 

A 33-year-old healthy mother in Delhi almost committed suicide after three months of giving birth to a boy. She recalls asking her family to help her, but they merely blamed her hormones. Only when her emotions escalated and became out of control that she tried to end her life. Her husband took her seriously and sought mental help from a therapist. The reason for the spike in depression and anxiety among pregnant women is social distancing. Perinatal mothers are more isolated from the world, their parents, and friends, who are in great need during this vulnerable period. They suffer from fear about their pregnancy, especially new mothers with no one to reassure or guide them. Another reason is financial issues. Many went unemployed or had their salaries cut in half during the lock down. Families expecting a child had to face many difficulties involving treatment money for the expectant mother as well as those who had just given birth, adding to their depression and anxiety level. 

Mothers feel isolated from their new born baby if they are facing mental illness, which can play a major role in the child’s growth. Studies show that children with mentally unstable mothers are likely to be victims of bullying in schools, perform poorly academically or develop a mental illness.

Depression is very common in pregnant or postnatal women. The following are the symptoms of women suffering from depression or likely to suffer from one:

• extreme sadness

• Irritability

• Uncertainty about the future

• Forgetfulness

• Difficulty in concentrating

• Self-harm

• Sleeplessness

• Extreme Tiredness

Anxiety disorder is another common mental disorder faced by pregnant and postnatal women. The following are the symptoms one needs to consider to help a mother or help yourself:

• Panic

• Nervousness

• Irritability

• Fear of being alone

• Sleeping problems 

• Extreme sweating

• body aches

• Increased pulse

Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD) is recurrent during the perinatal period, which can get to its worst forms like suicide or self-harm if not treated within time. The following are the symptoms:

• Washing hands more often than usual

• Storing things excessively

• Rechecking things

• Repeating phrases

• Overthinking

What can we do to help pregnant women or new mothers fight mental illness?

1.Encourage them to join support groups. Pregnant and new mothers can use support groups to meet other women in similar situations and talk about the issues they are dealing with.

2.Be a good listener. Listen to their problems instead of just giving sheer advice. Understand her problems before you impose your unsolicited advice. Recognize the factors that are causing her stress and, if necessary, make suggestions.

3.Give Clarification. Let her know she is not alone. The prenatal and postpartum periods are the most vulnerable periods for a woman. She is likely to feel lonelier than ever. Just being there for her and letting her know that she has someone to rely on can be a great help.

4. Help her find a counselor if needed and be there for her during counselling. This can help her release her stress.

What can pregnant and new mothers do? 

1. Remember, every mother goes through the same situation, and you are not alone in the process. Join support groups where you can meet women in familiar situations and where you can share your distress or experiences.

2. Talk to someone you trust. This person can be your partner, parent, friend, or therapist. This may be hard initially, but it will give you some relief and you might feel better knowing you have people to rely on.

3. Do some self-care. Eat good, nutritious meals and go for a short walk. Do the things you love and that will make you feel better.

4. Sleeping is mandatory when you are in a vulnerable state. So, make sure to get a minimum of 8 hours of sleep. Ask someone to care for your new-born baby when you sleep. You can hire a nanny or ask someone in your family or friend circle to help you.

The problem of mental health of women is multidimensional and complex. It is estimated that 10–35% of women around the world, including India, suffer from depression during pregnancy and postpartum. Even in the past, the issue of maternal mental health was barely addressed by public and private healthcare providers. However, in a crisis situation similar to the present pandemic, it is necessary that health facilities give attention to pregnant and recently delivered women for possible symptoms of depression. Detecting and treating depression in the beginning could prevent detrimental long-term effects on maternal and infant health. Pregnant and recently delivered women  should be provided with appropriate information as well as counseling, to reduce stress.They must also be supported by their partners and the community and encouraged to exercise and remain active for their mental health.It is also the government's responsibility to ensure their well-being and make the necessary effort to minimize the uncertainty that is the major cause of depression.

Writer- Upasana Puri