Breaking the Silence: Reducing the Stigma Around Postnatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders

22 Oct Breaking the Silence: Reducing the Stigma Around Postnatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Postnatal mood and anxiety disorders are more common than people might realise, but the stigma surrounding them can make it difficult for those affected to seek help. It’s essential to understand that postnatal depression, anxiety, or mood changes are not a sign of weakness or failure. Many parents, especially mothers, experience emotional, psychological, and physiological challenges after giving birth, and these struggles are a normal part of the postpartum journey.

One of the reasons stigma persists is the expectation that new parents should feel nothing but joy after the birth of a child. Society often overlooks the realities of sleep deprivation, hormonal changes, and the significant lifestyle shifts that accompany parenthood. These factors can contribute to overwhelming feelings of anxiety, sadness, or irritability. When expectations don’t match reality, new parents may feel guilty, and ashamed for not being “happy” enough, leading to isolation and a reluctance to seek support.

There are many factors that can contribute to postnatal mental health challenges. Hormonal changes after birth, combined with the physical and emotional toll of childbirth, can trigger mood swings, irritability, or even severe depression. In some cases, a traumatic birth experience or a lack of support can intensify these feelings, making it harder to cope with the demands of caring for a newborn.

Reducing the stigma around postnatal moods and anxiety disorders begins with open conversations. Acknowledging that postnatal mood shifts are common and often temporary is crucial. Talking openly about these issues with friends, family, and healthcare providers can help normalise the experience. It’s also important for those around new parents to offer empathy, recognising that struggling doesn’t make someone a bad parent.

Another key factor in reducing stigma is education. Many people, including new parents, may not fully understand what postnatal depression or anxiety entails. They might confuse it with normal “baby blues,” which are milder and typically pass within a couple of weeks. Postnatal depression, however, lasts longer and is more intense, often requiring professional support.

Avoiding making assumptions about how someone "should" feel after giving birth, and recognising that every person’s experience is different helps reduce the pressure new parents often feel. Acknowledging the complexity of emotions that new parents may experience, and showing empathy for those going through difficult times can truly make a difference.

Support networks are also crucial. Whether it’s a partner, family, or friends, having someone to talk to can make a significant difference. Sharing your feelings with others who understand can ease the burden, and having others who can listen without trying to “fix”; the situation can make a huge difference for someone struggling with Postnatal mood and anxiety disorders. Support can also be practical such as offering to help with small tasks around the house, or helping with the shopping or
cooking a few meals.

In some cases, joining a support group with others who are going through similar experiences can be particularly comforting. You’re not alone, and connecting with others can remind you of that. Reducing the stigma around postnatal mental health is a collective effort, but it begins with compassion, understanding, having open conversations, ensuring that new parents have the
resources they need to feel supported, and reaching out when needed.

It’s important to recognise that postnatal mental health challenges are common and that seeking support is a positive step. If you’re a parent dealing with postnatal mental health challenges, remember that it’s okay to ask for help, and most importantly that these feelings don’t define your ability as a parent. Seeking help can feel daunting, but reaching out is a positive and brave step toward healing. Our Vida psychologists are here to support you through this transition, helping you manage your emotions and navigate parenthood with more confidence.