Why we need to talk about postnatal depression

Women’s mental health has long been under-researched and under-reported in both academia and media¹, particularly when referring to perinatal mental health issues – an inequality which has been consistent throughout history. The term perinatal depression refers to both postnatal and antenatal depression. From what is often portrayed as the ‘happiest’ moment of your life, for some women it can be unbearable.  As many as 20% of pregnant people experience mental health problems during or in the first year after pregnancy². And, with around 1 in 5 women experiencing a perinatal mental health problem³, it’s proving to be an epidemic health professionals can’t ignore. 

How to help your partner

Seeing the person you love the most go through tough times is hard to watch. But there are things you can do to support your partner when they’re struggling with postnatal depression.

Listen and be there for them, create a non-judgemental space for them to express how they feel without the fear of being judged. Postnatal depression can be scary. With some mothers experiencing suicidal thoughts and thoughts of harming their children. The taboos surrounding these thoughts can exacerbate the symptoms and stop people seeking professional help through fear of what will happen if they admit to having these thoughts. Listen and support your partner without fear or judgement.

Pull your weight in the home. Simple things such as running a bath, doing the night feed and cooking dinner can all help towards relieving stress and anxiety for the new mother. Allowing your partner to catch up on sleep, get some light exercise or see a friend will help them to be able to keep up with their self-care.

Encourage your partner to seek help. Whether that means regular counselling sessions, medication or both, professional help may be necessary to help you and your partner navigate through this difficult time. Remember, you aren’t alone. 

How to help your friend, family member or colleague

Although you might not be waking up and spending each and everyday with your friend who is going through postnatal depression, there are many ways you can be supportive – whether that’s in person or remotely.

Be contactable. Be that by text, call or carrier pigeon, having someone to rant/ support you when you’re at your lowest who isn’t your immediate family or significant other can be really helpful. Prepare and drop round a meal and groceries. Getting time to cook or shop when you have a new-born is hard, make it easier for your friend!

Let them know help is out there. As well as your great support as a friend, they can reach out and get 24/7 digital support via their GP, as well as great digital support networks for new mums. Organisations such as Tommy’s, PANDAS foundation and MMHA provide free resources and helplines for families going through antenatal and postnatal difficulties.

No one wants to go through postnatal depression but it’s an unfortunately common occurrence for new mums. It’s important to remember support is out there. Stay strong and seek professional help, there is always someone willing to listen.

^Sources:
 

^{1. https://acmedsci.ac.uk/more/news/a-mans-world-how-healthcare-and-research-is-failing-women}

^{2. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/better-mental-health-jsna-toolkit/4-perinatal-mental-health}

^{3. https://maternalmentalhealthalliance.org/about/perinatal-mental-health}