The birth of a baby can trigger overwhelming emotions, not only excitement and joy but fear and anxiety as well. Emotional overload can also result in something you might not expect—depression.
I once had a conversation with a friend who did her confinement at a confinement centre. She was feeling blue but could not put a finger on why she was feeling that way. Fortunately, just a few days before she checked out, she had a session with a visiting counsellor who told her that she might be suffering from a Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).
She had no inkling that the emotional state she experienced was a form of MDD.
As a matter of fact, many Malaysians are still not well-informed about mental health and its disorders. According to The National Health Morbidity Survey (2015), the prevalence of mental health problems among adults was at 29.2%. The Malaysian Psychiatric Association believes the statistics could only be the tip of the iceberg as most cases are unreported or untreated.
Knowledge is power, and knowing the difference between mood swings, Major Depressive Disorders (MDD) and Generalised Anxiety Disorders (GAD) can help mommies receive the right treatment immediately.
Take note of the time frame
What is the cause of MDD and GAD? Well, doctors don’t even know for sure. All they know is that it can affect anyone, hence it should no longer be taboo. In addition, doctors believe that genetics and the environment play a pivotal role in affecting one’s mental health.
Although we do not know the causes, we do know the signs.
Signs and symptoms of depression after childbirth vary, and they can range from mild to severe. Postpartum depression (PDD) is a form of MDD that typically emerges over the first two to three postpartum months but may occur at any point after delivery. Some women have experienced the onset of mild depressive symptoms even before giving birth. PPD is clinically indistinguishable from depression, and it occurs in one in every seven women.
Now, depression should not be mistaken with baby blues that happen a few days after childbirth and goes away after a maximum of two weeks. If the depressive mood and the incapability to care for your baby persists, it is likely either an MDD or GAD.
You don’t act like you
You might need to trust the counsel of others (probably your husband) if they say you are not acting like you after giving birth. The onset of MDD can seem like a common side effect with mild signs like trouble sleeping and appetite changes. It can slowly grow into severe fatigue with frequent mood changes.
Most of us would instinctively think, “I am okay”, but if those closest to you believe otherwise, do not strike the possibility of having depression from your list.
Other symptoms the people around you might observe include:
- Fear
- Irritability
- Excessive worry about the baby
- Obsessive behaviour
- Loss of interest in activities that used to excite you
You don’t feel like you
Others may notice the signs, but symptoms may be apparent to you first, especially when it involves the inner workings of your mind. These are things that don’t manifest themselves outwardly but can eat you up from the inside.
Feeling upset once in a while is normal. But if you have frequent crying spells, feel unhappy about being a parent, or you’re often putting yourself down as a mum, thinking that you are probably the worst new mother in the world, do note that these could be among the first signs of MDD or GAD.
The dark clouds that won’t float away in MDD and GAD may be in the form of:
- Poor concentration
- Feeling lost
- Feeling scared
- Questioning every decision you make (no matter how minute)
- Shame
- Loneliness
- Self-hate
Never be afraid to seek professional help
When it comes to either MDD and GAD, you can’t just snap out of it. There is no switch in the brain that you can just switch off, and voila, you are okay again.
That said, you must note that mental illness is treatable. We advise everyone who experiences MDD and GAD to shake off their inhibitions that can stem from stigma, denial or the acceptance that they have to live with it for the rest of their lives.
Most importantly, MDD and GAD do not only affect you but the people around you as well. Untreated postpartum depression can be risky for new mums and their children. Thoughts of suicide or harming yourself or your baby are advanced signs of depression. If left untreated, it can lead to postpartum psychosis, a rare and dangerous mental illness.
An estimated one in seven women experiences MDD or GAD. If you’re feeling depressed after your baby’s birth, you may be reluctant or embarrassed to admit it. However, we strongly advise that if you experience any depressive symptoms or have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, seek professional help for yourself immediately. Call your doctor and schedule an appointment. Entrust your partner or loved ones in taking care of your baby because you need to take care of yourself—first and foremost!
Your mental health should be covered
Another element that can contribute to depressed mothers not wanting to get aid is cost.
After handling delivery bills and payments for confinement packages, the last thing you want to spend on is a session to talk to someone about your issues (this is what most people think counselling is all about).
However, if you ever need mental health aid, Allianz now has PreciousCover and BabyCover insurance coverage.
It provides Mental Health Coverage for mothers diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorders (MDD) or Generalised Anxiety Disorders (GAD).
You can access Allianz Careline support for immediate medical advice, telehealth support made accessible for PreciousCover and/or BabyCover policyholders.
Sunway Medical Centre medical officers or nurses will be providing medical advice on maternal and children’s health. The telehealth support is available from Monday to Friday, 10AM – 8PM (except public holidays). Just call 1300 88 8822 or WhatsApp to 019 2212 398.
The first 1,000 customers who purchase a new Allianz PowerLink policy and attach PreciousCover and/or BabyCover during the campaign period will get an exclusive Allianz Baby Box, on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are expecting, register ASAP as the campaign ends on December 31, 2021.
Remember, when it comes to mental health, there should be no taboos; just correct treatment. When you are healthy (mentally and physically), your baby will be, too!
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