KARACHI:
Postpartum depression affects about 28% to 63% of women in Pakistan. It can include symptoms like heightened guilt and anxiety as well as intrusive thoughts about harming the baby or yourself. New mothers commonly experience irregular and disrupted sleep patterns, fatigue, crying spells and a lack of interest in day-to-day activities. Unfortunately, in Pakistan, postpartum depression is not taken seriously due to cultural norms and various other factors.
Instead of calling new mothers lazy or unfit to be a mother, families must realise that women experience hormonal changes and mental health challenges that need to be addressed through psychological aid and support from close ones. The belief that women should toughen up and carry through like other generations before them can cause more distress and worsen the symptoms. Alarmingly, many Pakistani gynaecologists remain unaware of postpartum depression and few refer their patients to psychologists or psychiatrists. The lack of awareness and stigma related to mental health concerns result in women being cornered, ashamed and isolated.
Nowadays, many women frequently share their own experiences on social media, but we still have a long way to go. Postpartum depression needs to be taken seriously and all new mothers should be recommended therapy or psychological support. Collaborative efforts between gynaecologists, general physicians and mental health workers can improve awareness and emphasise the need to seek help for the safety and well-being of mothers and their newborns.
Shiza Mir
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, December 3rd, 2023.
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