Reproduction is hard-wired into our psyche; it is a biological imperative. Not surprisingly, our societal response to pregnancy is conditioned and automatic. It’s cause for celebration and joy. There is no acceptable alternate response.
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While an expectant mother may, indeed, welcome and celebrate the impending arrival of a child, research shows us that one in 10 will experience depression during their pregnancies. One in seven will experience postnatal depression, and pre- and postnatal anxiety is thought to be at least as common.
And, as beyondblue points out, pregnancy often leads to feelings of uncertainty and fear, even among women who don’t experience mental health problems.
These high numbers belie our conditioned response and offer little room for women to admit or seek help if they are experiencing depression, anxiety or fear.
Postnatal Depression Awareness Week aims to change this. By educating people about the high prevalence of these conditions, we increase the likelihood that women will seek, and receive, mental health care that is on a par with their physical care.
Pregnant women pay great attention to their bodies during pregnancy.
But what of their minds? What is the recipe for resilience, peace and happiness?
Yes, there is a new phone app with tools and techniques, which has been created in association with beyondblue. Yes, there are helplines, as detailed in the story on page 3.
But perhaps the most constructive step would be for our society, as a whole, to banish the silence around postnatal depression and anxiety. They aren’t shocking or shameful. They strike often, and without discrimination.
Our best immunisation, and cure, is to banish stigma and open up the conversation.