Maternal Mental Health Is in Decline: Let’s Talk About Postpartum Well-being

While motherhood is exciting and a unique experience, it can also be overwhelming for many. Today, a large number of women are grappling with postpartum depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders after childbirth. The hormonal changes that happen post-delivery, specifically a steep drop in estrogen and progesterone, trigger the emotional responses.

This decline in maternal mental health is concerning and not just for mothers but for the well-being of the child and the entire family. The causes of maternal mental health can range from hormonal changes after delivery, lack of sleep and rest, physical pain or recovery after childbirth, feeling isolated or unsupported, pressure to “bounce back” quickly, and relationship stress or financial worries. Hence, a new mom can be confused or emotionally drained.

This article is authored byDr. Kanika Gera Thakral,Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynecology, Motherhood Hospitals, Greater Noida

Prioritising Support and Resources for Postpartum Mental Health

The symptoms

• Constant sadness or mood swings
• Loss of interest in things once enjoyed
• Trouble bonding with the baby
• Fatigue and low energy
•Anxiety, panic attacks, or feeling “not good enough”
•Difficulty sleeping or eating
•Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby (in extreme cases)

If not treated early, postpartum mental health issues can worsen and lead to long-term depression, strained family relationships, poor bonding with the child, and a negative impact on a child’s emotional development. So, timely management is key and can improve the well-being of the mother and the baby.

Don't Miss:How Sucheta Pal Is Redefining Motherhood Healing—Body, Mind, and Spirit

Pay attention to these essential tips

• Talk about your feelings: Speak openly to your partner, family, or a counselor. You’re not alone, and help is available when required. Don’t just bottle up your feelings. It is necessary to have an open conversation.
• Ensure to rest and recharge: A sound sleep is important for emotional recovery. Don’t feel guilty about asking for help to get rest. Take good care of yourself.
• Stay Connected: Keep in touch with friends, join a mom’s group, or talk to other new mothers. A support system matters.
• Stay away from social media trends:Social media can mislead in many ways, the perfect baby pictures and the bounce back body transformations can make new moms feel overwhelmed and underconfident.

• Eat and move well: Opt for balanced meals and take short walks. These small steps can lift your mood and help to stay in top shape, calm, and composed.

• Bond with the baby: Practice Kangaroo care, focus on bonding with your baby , and healing yourself.
• Seek help: If you feel constantly low, anxious, or overwhelmed, talk to a counselor.
Maternal mental health deserves just as much attention as physical health. It is necessary to create a space where new moms feel heard, supported, and empowered to seek help without fear or shame. Healthy mothers lead to healthy families. So, take charge of your mental well-being, right away!

Don't Miss:5 Ways in Which New Moms Can Defeat Postpartum Depression

If you liked this story, then please share it. To read more such stories, stay connected to HerZindagi

Image Credit: freepik.