Let’s talk about something that affects many mothers - maternal mental health.
I struggle to find a word that fully describes motherhood. Motherhood is a complex experience - a mix of joy, love, and fulfilment but at the same time, challenging, exhausting, and overwhelming. By raising awareness and providing resources for maternal mental health, we can help mothers overcome the stigma and receive the support they need.
The Stigma Surrounding Maternal Mental Health
Maternal mental health often refers to how a mother feels emotionally and mentally during pregnancy and after giving birth. There are still many unrealistic expectations, shame, and stigma surrounding these topics, which can make it hard for mothers to seek the help they need or even talk about it.
The Root of the Stigma
The cultural assumption that mothers are superheroes who can handle anything has led to a significant stigma surrounding maternal mental health. Many women feel ostracized and alone as they try to cope with these challenges weighed down by societal pressure. This mindset is deeply ingrained in our culture and needs to change.
The Reality of Maternal Mental Health The reality is that maternal mental health conditions are incredibly common. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), almost 1 in 5 women experience some form of mental health difficulty during pregnancy or in the year after giving birth. This means that there are many mothers who are silently struggling with their mental health.
Breaking the Stigma: Steps to Take
Breaking the stigma is crucial and can start with having open and honest conversations about it. Start talking about the challenges that mothers face and normalizing these struggles. Challenge the misconception that motherhood should come naturally and that mothers are expected to adjust to their new role without support. Invite mothers to talk about their struggles without judgment.
Providing Support for Mothers
Mothers who are going through mental health challenges need to know that they are not alone and that help is available to support them through the journey. We need to make sure that they have access to mental health resources and support networks that are specifically designed to support mothers. This information should be made available at clinics, hospitals, and mother and child care centres (aka confinement centres). It would also be helpful if maternal mental health is discussed during prenatal care to prepare mothers for the transitions and challenges that they might encounter.
Conclusion
It will take time to break down the stigma, but the work must continue until we create a world where mothers feel empowered and supported on their journey. Mothers are not superheroes; they are human beings who deserve love, care, and support, and it is okay to be vulnerable. Let’s work together to make this a reality, one conversation at a time.
Live well,
Your Health Psychologist
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