July is Mental Health Awareness Month, and a pharmacy chain has decided to focus its attention on an often misunderstood and overlooked condition - postpartum depression.
Lizeth Kruger, Dis-Chem Baby City’s and Dis-Chem National Clinic Executive, emphasises the importance of recognising and managing postpartum mental health.
The first year after childbirth brings intense emotions, physical changes, and new responsibilities that can greatly affect a mother's mental wellbeing.
“While anxiety is a normal response during pregnancy and postpartum, excessive worry, difficulty relaxing, and physical symptoms like racing heart or shortness of breath might indicate something more serious, which is why it is important to talk openly about these issues and seek help,” advises Kruger.
Differentiating Between Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression
Kruger explained that it's important to know the difference between the short-term "baby blues" and longer-lasting postpartum depression.
Baby blues usually appear a few days after giving birth, causing brief feelings of sadness and crying. These are often due to tiredness and getting used to a new routine. On the other hand, postpartum depression lasts much longer, sometimes for weeks or months.
It includes serious changes in eating or sleeping habits, losing interest in activities once enjoyed, and feeling worthless or hopeless. Kruger advises mothers to seek medical help quickly if they think they might have postpartum depression.
Managing Mum Guilt and Combating Isolation
Guilt is a common feeling for new mothers, often intensified by societal pressures. Kruger encourages mothers to practice self-compassion, and highlights that seeking help and joining support groups can help ease these feelings.
She also highlights the importance of staying connected with friends and family, whether through online or in-person support groups, and using childcare options to avoid isolation and maintain social interactions.
Balancing Motherhood with Self-Care
Kruger emphasises the need for new mothers to keep a sense of their own identity, despite the demands of motherhood. She suggests continuing with hobbies they enjoyed before becoming a mother, maintaining relationships with partners or loved ones, and using healthy coping methods like journalling or exercise to handle emotional changes.
Seeking support and professional help
Kruger highlights the importance of seeking professional help if you feel overwhelmed. Consulting healthcare providers supports both your mental health and your child's wellbeing.
“If you feel overwhelmed, don't hesitate to seek help. Talk to your healthcare provider about your concerns. Remember, prioritising your mental health is essential for your wellbeing and that of your child. There is no shame in asking for help.
‘'In fact, the opposite is true, in that it shows strength and acknowledgement of the importance of mental wellbeing, so during this Mental Illness Awareness Month, let’s break the stigma around mental illness,” said Kruger.
IOL