When studies show that up to 30% of women experience some form of anxiety and/or mood disorder during pregnancy or postpartum, including postpartum depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and even PTSD, something is not right.   (Scroll down to watch the video)

 

It started way back, in Ancient Greece and religion, far too much to go into here, but it has shaped modern medicine today.  The focus was, and is today, often about treating diseases (and that the body and mind are separate) rather than focusing on maintaining health physically, emotionally and mentally. 

 

The way women were treated, if they were feeling anything from unhappy to experiencing psychosis, was truly atrocious.  This began as the influence of a male-dominated Healthcare System started to form.

 

Throughout history, mental health issues have been surrounded by fear, shame, and societal stigma. Even though we’re raising awareness and breaking down these barriers, we have to understand that it doesn’t erase thousands of years of appalling treatment of women.

 

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, also known as PMAD’s, which I’ll call here, refers to a range of mental health challenges that can affect mothers from pregnancy to the first year after giving birth, or beyond.

They include mood disorders like depression and anxiety and can disrupt daily life.

 

PMADs are currently primarily diagnosed using the Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders  (DSM-5), a manual for mental health professionals used to help diagnose and ironically written by 9 males, and only 2 females.

 

It actually defines postpartum depression as occurring only within the first four weeks after birth, which is absolutely crazy in my opinion, but luckily, a lot more health care providers now recognize that it can extend up to the first 12 months.

 

Unfortunately, PMADs are quite common, affecting approximately 1 in 7 women. In Australia, around 13% of women will experience postpartum depression. Sadly, maternal suicides are one of the leading cause of death in the first year after giving birth.

 

The rates of PMADs can vary widely between countries due to cultural views on mental health and the level of support available to new mothers.

 

For example, in Japan, mental health struggles are often seen as shameful to a family, whereas in Malaysia, mental health is acknowledged. 

 

In fact the govt actually takes care of mothers, supporting  them in postpartum.  They have free services for Pelvic floor therapists, mental health,  home visits from a nurse, family members help in the home with cooking, nourishing meals, and herbs plus there’s breastfeeding support,  and even paid leave for long period of time. 

 

The postpartum depression rate in Malaysia is less than 3%.  In Japan it’s around 10%.  I personally believe the stats speak for themselves.

 

Despite increased awareness and education about mental health in Australia (and other countries) , many mothers still silently struggle with postpartum depression due to a lack of support, the right nutrition and the expectation that these issues are “normal.”

 

Family history of mental health issues,  traumatic birth, including unexpected outcomes, lack of social support, financial stress, relationship difficulties, and past experiences of abuse or trauma, also create a higher risk of depression.

 

So What’s the difference between Postpartum depression and Baby blues?

 

Postpartum depression (PPD) can be challenging to distinguish from the regular emotions, and experiences that come with new parenthood, and what we know as Baby Blues.

 

Here’s some general guidelines.

Around 80% of mothers can experience baby blues.   Generally it’s from hormone fluctuation, lack of sleep and support, feeling overwhelmed.

 

You may feel sad and teary, overwhelmed,  lacking confidence, tired. Usually in the first 2 weeks after birth. Overall, though, you feel happiness, moments of joy, bonding with your baby.

 

Baby Blues is not considered a disease or disorder. You need support and nourishment. Make sure you’re eating nutrient dense meals regularly and getting the help you need.

 

Postnatal Depression affects approximately 13% of women in Australia. 

 

Usually, it’s persistent daily symptoms for 2 week,  such as deep sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, changes in appetite, dark thoughts, worry, insomnia, feeling worthless, loss of interest in life .  Why 2 weeks?  Who knows! 

 

Postpartum Depression is a diagnosed condition. Seek a health care professional as soon as possible.

 

Some suggestions I have are:

It’s becoming more and more common and is far from normal however.

And it’s not your fault.

 

Seek help from a trusted health professional who you can talk to and be helped in a supportive and respectful way.

 

Just being handed pills and told it’s normal is not acceptable.

 

Of course, listen to the healthcare provider if medication is required, and also get help with nutritious meals, sleep and anything else you need.

 

You can also rely on me to help point you in the right direction, or guide you through a nutrient dense meal plan, or just someone to talk to.

 

That’s why I’m here 😊

Reach out to me if you need that help.