Postpartum Depression
Women often experience baby blues after having a baby, where they feel tired, anxious, sad, or moody. However, if these feelings don’t go away after a few weeks and are affecting your ability to function, you may be suffering from postpartum depression. It is a form of depression that mothers can experience after giving birth, and it may manifest shortly after delivery, or even months later.
Signs of Postpartum Depression
- Crying often and for long periods of time
- Disruptions to sleep and appetite
- Mood swings
- Disinterest in or disconnection from the baby
- Thoughts of self-harm or of hurting the baby
Infertility
Infertility is an issue that can affect women’s mental health in a variety of ways. During the initial discovery of one’s inability to conceive, you may feel emotions such as shock, grief, and anger. Your self-esteem may be impacted, and you may feel anxious or depressed. Not only that, the process of getting fertility treatments can evoke a multitude of emotions as well, ranging from hope on one end, to disappointment and guilt on the other. You may even find that you’re distancing yourself from friends and family who remind you of your struggles, such that infertility ends up harming relationships that are dear to you.
Birth Trauma
When a woman faces emotional, physical, or psychological trauma at any stage of the birthing process, they may go on to experience a form of post-traumatic stress disorder that happens after childbirth, otherwise known as birth trauma. There are several situations that might predispose you to developing birth trauma. Medical emergencies occurring during or after the baby is born, insufficient pain management during labour, and complications involving the baby can contribute. The birthing process might also trigger memories of past traumatic events in you, adding to the trauma of the whole experience.
Signs of Birth Trauma
- Relive parts of the trauma
- Be hypervigilant
- Avoid reminders of their trauma
- Experience various negative emotions
Coping with Women-Related Issues
Despite the struggles women face when it comes to motherhood and their mental health, there are avenues you can turn to for support. Seeking the help of professionals, such as in the form of therapy, is one option, while confiding in others who may be able to support you as you recover may be another. Being aware of your own needs and engaging in self-care can also go a long way in feeling better. However, if a situation arises where there is a risk of harm to yourself or to others, taking immediate action and calling emergency hotlines is encouraged.
