Postnatal depression is a type of depression some women experience after having a baby. It can develop within the first six weeks of giving birth, but is often not apparent until around six months. depression is more common than many people realise, affecting around one in 10 women after having a baby. Women from all ethnic groups can be affected. Teenage mothers are particularly at risk. Postnatal depression can sometimes go unnoticed and many women are unaware they have it, even though they don’t feel quite right. The symptoms of postnatal depression are wide-ranging and can include low mood, feeling unable to cope and difficulty sleeping.
Signs and Symptons
Mood changes, irritability and episodes of tearfulness are common after giving birth. These symptoms are often known as the “baby blues” and they usually clear up within a few weeks. However, if your symptoms are more persistent, it could be depression. Some women don’t recognise they have postnatal depression, or they choose to ignore their symptoms because they’re afraid of being seen as a bad mother. If you think that a partner, relative or friend is showing the signs and symptoms of postnatal depression, be supportive and encourage her to see a GP/Doctor. It’s very important to understand that depression is an illness. If you have it, it doesn’t mean you don’t love or care for your baby.
HonaAfrica, an African Film and TV Production Company has produced a short film titled Am I Not A Mother documenting Zimbabwean women’s experience of post natal depression #PND
Watch the short film below!
Those poor women! It must be awful to feel that way. Maybe this video will help some realize that they aren’t the only ones and that there are ways to cope. Reaching out and telling someone, getting some exercise or possibly getting some therapy.
Oh it is so sad that many women suffer from postnatal depression. I also hear a lot about this after delivering my daughter 3.5 years back.
Mostly women do not know that they are suffering from this disease. I personally believe that any kind of depression can be overcome with a daily speech with the Lord. This video can help many women.
Documentary is really effective in creating an understanding of what post natal depression is like.
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This is an important topic that is near and dear to my heart. I had a friend suffer through this and I didn’t know. There are people who don’t believe that postpardum depression really exists. Thank you for bringing attention to this very real issue. Often the guilt is too much for these ladies to admit they are suffering and I can see this leading to shaken baby syndrome. Tragic cycle. Great job presenting this problem.