Bringing a new life into the world is undoubtedly a joyous experience. However, for some Nigerian mothers, the postpartum period can be accompanied by a deep sense of sadness, anxiety, and overwhelming emotions. This experience, known as postpartum depression, affects a significant number of women in Nigeria but often goes undiscussed and untreated due to cultural stigmas and limited awareness.

In this article, we aim to shed light on postpartum depression meaning, its unique challenges within the Nigerian context, and most importantly, provide practical insights for postpartum depression treatment.

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Postpartum Depression in Nigeria

How do you explain to people who believe depression isn’t really a thing that you are going through PPD? How many women themselves know that they are going through postpartum depression? What is postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression in Nigeria is a complex emotional condition that some women experience after childbirth. It goes beyond the baby blues that lasts for a week or two and involves persistent feelings of sadness, mood swings, anxiety, sleep difficulties, and a lack of interest in activities.

According to a study published in the Nigerian Medical Journal, approximately 20% of Nigerian mothers experience postpartum depression within the first year after childbirth. This staggering statistic sheds light on the prevalence of postpartum depression in Nigeria, highlighting the urgent need for awareness, support, and effective coping strategies for Nigerian mothers facing this challenge.

Postpartum Depression Causes

In Nigeria, postpartum depression often faces misconceptions, with women being labeled as dramatic during this period (and if you know Nigerian women, you know you are in trouble for calling them dramatic). However, it's important to understand that PPD is not a matter of character but a legitimate mental health condition that affects many women in Nigeria. The causes of postpartum depression can be multifaceted and may include hormonal changes, emotional adjustments, lack of support, societal pressures, and cultural factors. It is crucial to address these underlying causes and provide support and understanding to women experiencing postpartum depression in Nigeria.

Risks and Dangers of Postpartum Depression in Nigeria

PPD carries significant risks that can affect both Nigerian mothers and the well-being of her baby. Here are some of the risks associated with PPD:

1. Impaired maternal-infant bonding: One of the scariest things to experience as a mother is being estranged with your child, especially at a very early stage. Unfortunately, PPD drains so much emotional energy that it could interfere with the mother-child bonding, making it difficult for a mother to develop a strong emotional connection with her baby. This consequently potentially affects the baby's emotional and social development.PPD can also disrupt a mother's ability to engage in responsive and nurturing interactions with her baby, hindering the baby's cognitive development and potentially having long-term effects on their overall well-being.

2. Deteriorated relationships and maternal well-being: Untreated postpartum depression negatively impacts maternal mental health, manifesting as chronic sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness. These emotional difficulties can make it difficult to go about everyday activities, put stress on marriages, families, and friendships, and eventually decrease overall life satisfaction.

3. Impact on maternal physical health: Women suffering postpartum depression are also at risk of experiencing physical side effects like disturbed sleep habits, altered appetite, and compromised immune system performance. These elements could also increase a mother's susceptibility to sickness and degrade their general wellbeing.

Postpartum Depression Symptoms

A woman experiencing postpartum depression symptoms in Nigeria could easily be mistaken as a dramatic woman. Here are nine postpartum depression symptoms to watch out for:

• Emotional emptiness or chronic sadness

• Feelings of desolation

• Abnormal mood swings

• Changes in appetite and sleep patterns

• Lack of interest or pleasure

• Disappointment with oneself

• Difficulty bonding with the baby

• Increased anxiety

• Recurrent thoughts of harming oneself or the baby

Postpartum Depression in Men

Yes, men also go through postpartum depression in Nigeria. It is important to understand that men have their share of the depressive condition and there are some particular difficulties they experience. Here are some important things to note about postpartum depression in men:

• Just like moms, men can also experience a variety of emotional and psychological signs and symptoms of postpartum depression. These could involve depressive emotions, exhaustion, feeling overwhelmed, increased anxiety, and adjustments to one's food and sleeping habits.

• Risk factors: Postpartum depression is more likely to occur in young dads, people who have already had depression, people who are having marital issues, and those who are having financial troubles.

• Postpartum depression in fathers, often referred to as paternal postpartum depression, can have a detrimental impact on partner interactions and child development, much like it does in mothers. The bonding process with the newborn might be strained, likewise the relationships between couples.

Postpartum Depression Treatment

The severity of postpartum depression varies as per victim. Nonetheless, following these eight postpartum depression treatment steps will put you on the right track to mental and emotional wellness:

1. Seek professional help: Reach out to your family doctor or any healthcare professional who specializes in mental health or postpartum depression. They can provide an accurate diagnosis, assess the severity of your symptoms, and develop an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your needs.

2. Therapy and counseling: Consider individual therapy or counseling sessions, which can be highly beneficial in helping you explore and process your emotions, develop coping strategies, and improve your overall mental well-being. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) are common therapeutic approaches for treating PPD.

3. Medication options: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms of postpartum depression. Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can be effective in managing the emotional and psychological aspects of the condition. Consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the potential benefits and risks of medication.

4. Self-care practices: Prioritize self-care and engage in activities that promote your overall well-being. This can include getting enough sleep, maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical exercise, and finding time for relaxation and stress reduction techniques, such as mindfulness or meditation.

5. Establish a support network: Reach out to your loved ones, friends, or support groups to share your feelings and experiences. Connecting with others who have gone through or are going through a similar journey can provide invaluable support, reassurance, and understanding.

6. Involve your partner and loved ones: Encourage open and honest communication with your partner and loved ones. Share your challenges, emotions, and needs, and work together to create a supportive and nurturing environment for both you and your baby.

7. Take it one step at a time: Recovery from postpartum depression is a gradual process. Be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories along the way. Focus on self-compassion and acknowledge that healing takes time.

What to do when you feel suicidal?

Coping with postpartum depression in Nigeria can be an incredibly challenging experience, as it often comes with the added burden of societal misunderstandings and judgments. It's important to remember that you are not alone and that your feelings are valid. Research highlights the seriousness of this condition, revealing that 20% of postpartum deaths are attributed to suicide. If you find yourself in a situation where you're experiencing thoughts of self-harm or harm to your baby, it's crucial to consider the following steps for your well-being and safety:

1. Call support lines:

• National Suicide Prevention Helpline: Contact the national helpline dedicated to suicide prevention in Nigeria at 08062106493 (available 24/7).

• Lagos State Emergency Helpline: If you reside in Lagos State, you can call the helpline at 112 or 767 (available 24/7) for mental health support.

• Mental Health Foundation Nigeria: Reach out to the Mental Health Foundation Nigeria at +2348037478595 for counseling services and support.

1. Reach out to a local healthcare Provider: Go on to your interaX mobile application to find the nearest healthcare provider. You could also consult mental healthcare professionals online on interaX.

2. Talk to a loved one.

3. Reach out to a spiritual leader if you belong to a religious community.

Conclusion

Coping with postpartum depression as a Nigerian woman is a journey that requires understanding, support, and self-care. Remember, PPD is neither a character issue nor a condition you can intentionally make happen, so reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

If you suspect someone you know may be experiencing postpartum depression, please offer your support in seeking help. Often, individuals may not be aware they are going through postpartum depression or may hesitate to seek assistance. If you notice them exhibiting at least half of the symptoms, encourage them to seek appropriate help.

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