Alison Watt’s grandmother was diagnosed with ‘puerperal insanity’ and institutionalised not long after giving birth to her father. He didn’t meet her – or know she was alive – until his early 20s.
New motherhood is often portrayed as a time of joy but it can also be filled with fears and complicated feelings. Here’s how you can get help and support.
Iris Lesser, University of The Fraser Valley dan Scott Lear, Simon Fraser University
Women who are physically active in the postnatal period report better mental well-being than those who are less active, but the pandemic has made exercise less accessible.
The percentage of women receiving the recommended perinatal mental health screening has tripled since 2000 – but one in five women are still missing out.
New study finds that giving birth through an emergency caesarean increases the risk of developing postnatal depression in the first nine months after childbirth by about 15%.
Having a stressed and depressed father can have serious implications for infants and relationships. And supporting a father who may be experiencing mental ill health means supporting the mother too.
Cliched comments like “it wasn’t meant to be” or “don’t worry, you’ll get pregnant” are hurtful and dismissive. Instead, acknowledge their loss, listen and let them grieve.
Depression and anxiety during pregnancy are only recently gaining attention. But seeking help early can make a big difference for expecting mothers – and for their children and families.