Joy Stephanie
After the joy of childbirth, every mother hopes for a smooth and happy transition into motherhood. But for many Kenyan women, this phase is overshadowed by an unexpected challenge—postpartum depression (PPD). This serious mental health condition affects about 10-15% of mothers worldwide, and Kenyan women are no exception. In fact, the rate can be much higher in Kenya, with some studies suggesting that up to 50.3% of women experience PPD due to factors like lack of mental health support and societal pressure.
What is Postpartum Depression?
PPD is more than just a bit of sadness or moodiness after childbirth—it’s a deep, ongoing struggle with feelings of sadness, anxiety, and fatigue that can make it difficult for new mothers to care for themselves and their babies. Unlike the “baby blues,” which typically fade after a few weeks, PPD can last for months if untreated. Symptoms include:
Constant sadness or hopelessness
Lack of interest in the baby
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
In severe cases, thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby.
Why Are Kenyan Mothers Suffering in Silence?
In Kenya, talking about mental health is still somewhat taboo. Many women feel the pressure to embrace motherhood without complaint. They’re expected to carry the burdens silently, as mental health issues are often misunderstood. Instead of seeking help, many mothers believe they should just “get over it.”
Healthcare systems in Kenya also fall short when it comes to screening and supporting women suffering from PPD. While there is increasing awareness of mental health, the healthcare infrastructure lacks the proper tools to routinely identify and address this condition early on.
The Impact on Mothers and Families
Untreated PPD doesn’t just affect the mother. Studies show that children of mothers with untreated depression may experience developmental delays, emotional issues, and difficulties in forming strong emotional bonds. This can have long-lasting effects on the child’s overall health and wellbeing.
For the mother, untreated PPD can spiral into chronic depression and anxiety, leading to difficulties in daily functioning and maintaining relationships. Some mothers might even experience postpartum psychosis, a rare but severe form of mental illness that includes hallucinations and delusions. Without treatment, the consequences can be devastating.
What Needs to Change?
Kenya needs a shift in how we approach maternal mental health. Here’s how we can help:
1. Mental Health Screening: Healthcare providers need to integrate mental health screening into routine postnatal care. This way, new mothers can be evaluated for PPD before it becomes overwhelming.
2. Education and Awareness: Communities need to be educated about postpartum depression so that families, friends, and even mothers themselves understand the signs and know where to seek help. No mother should feel ashamed for seeking support.
3. Support Systems: Organizations like Postpartum Support Kenya and Beyond Zero have made strides in providing mental health services to mothers, but their reach must expand. More resources need to be directed toward training healthcare professionals to better serve new mothers.
It’s Time to Break the Silence
Postpartum depression is a serious condition that can affect anyone, and it shouldn’t be ignored or dismissed. By spreading awareness, encouraging open conversations, and providing better support for mothers, we can ensure that no mother has to suffer in silence.
Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Every mother deserves to feel supported, and every child deserves a healthy, happy start in life. Let’s start talking about PPD and making it a priority in maternal health care.
