1 in 5 women experience postpartum depression; Expert shares simple ways to keep mental health of mothers in check

Did you know 1 in 5 women suffer from postpartum depression? (Picture Credit: Pexels)

Postpartum depression is real. While motherhood comes with a lot of happiness it also brings along responsibilities and health challenges for new mothers. The mental and physical changes can be overwhelming. It is common to see new mothers juggle sleepless nights, unending responsibilities, and the emotional labour of raising children. While gender equality and professional recognition have advanced, maternal mental health, particularly postpartum depression, remains ignored.

The mental and emotional burden of new mothers is often undervalued. Dr Vikram Vora, Medical Director at International SOS, says, “Postpartum depression, chronic burnout, anxiety, and decision fatigue are common, yet frequently invisible.” He adds that almost one in five women experience postpartum depression, but stigma and lack of awareness prevent diagnosis and treatment. Dr Vora emphasises, “Coping with infant care, household duties, and work pressures while facing societal expectations of ‘bouncing back’ places mothers under relentless stress, affecting both personal and family wellbeing.”

Dr Vora shares that ignoring maternal mental health has tangible consequences that include:

- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
- Higher likelihood of anxiety disorders
- Weakened immune system
- Metabolic disturbances and fatigue
- Emotional dissociation and lack of motivation
- Adverse impact on child’s growth
- Household stress and disrupted family harmony
- Over 60% of working mothers manage most chores

Postpartum depression is real (Picture Credit: Unsplash)

Supporting maternal mental health doesn’t have to be complicated. Regular postpartum check-ups can catch early signs of depression, while easy access to therapy and counselling helps mothers manage stress. Flexible parental leave allows time to rest without worrying about careers, and workplace flexibility, like remote work and understanding leadership, eases the return to work. Most importantly, creating a culture where self-care and asking for help are encouraged empowers mothers to recover and thrive in the long term.

Prioritising mothers equals prioritising the future. “When organisations invest in maternal mental health, they safeguard individuals and the fabric of society,” Dr Vora shares, adding, “Mothers sustain communities, and their wellbeing determines the health of future generations.”

Postpartum depression is real. While motherhood comes with a lot of happiness it also brings along responsibilities and health challenges for new mothers. The mental and physical changes can be overwhelming. It is common to see new mothers juggle sleepless nights, unending responsibilities, and the emotional labour of raising children. While gender equality and professional recognition have advanced, maternal mental health, particularly postpartum depression, remains ignored.

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The mental and emotional burden of new mothers is often undervalued. Dr Vikram Vora, Medical Director at International SOS, says, “Postpartum depression, chronic burnout, anxiety, and decision fatigue are common, yet frequently invisible.” He adds that almost one in five women experience postpartum depression, but stigma and lack of awareness prevent diagnosis and treatment. Dr Vora emphasises, “Coping with infant care, household duties, and work pressures while facing societal expectations of ‘bouncing back’ places mothers under relentless stress, affecting both personal and family wellbeing.”

Dr Vora shares that Ignoring maternal mental health has tangible consequences that include: 

• Increased risk of cardiovascular disease - Higher likelihood of anxiety disorders - Weakened immune system - Metabolic disturbances and fatigue - Emotional dissociation and lack of motivation - Adverse impact on child’s growth - Household stress and disrupted family harmony - Over 60% of working mothers manage most chores Supporting maternal mental health doesn’t have to be complicated. Regular postpartum check-ups can catch early signs of depression, while easy access to therapy and counselling helps mothers manage stress. Flexible parental leave allows time to rest without worrying about careers, and workplace flexibility, like remote work and understanding leadership, eases the return to work. Most importantly, creating a culture where self-care and asking for help are encouraged empowers mothers to recover and thrive in the long term. Also read: Asthma and COPD: Daily air pollution hurts women more, pulmonologist warns

FAQs on postpartum depression:

1. What is postpartum depression?

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a type of mood disorder that can affect women (and sometimes partners) after childbirth. It goes beyond the common “baby blues” — lasting longer and feeling more intense — and can include persistent sadness, anxiety, fatigue, and difficulty bonding with the baby. It’s caused by a combination of hormonal, physical, and emotional changes after delivery.

2. How is postpartum depression different from the “baby blues”?

Baby blues usually appear within a few days after birth and resolve within about 2 weeks. Symptoms include mood swings, irritability, and crying spells.

Postpartum depression lasts longer (weeks to months) and is more severe. It can affect sleep, appetite, energy, and the ability to care for oneself or the baby. If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks, professional help is important.

3. What are the common symptoms of postpartum depression?

Common signs include:

Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
Fatigue or difficulty sleeping (even when the baby sleeps)
Feeling worthless, guilty, or overwhelmed
Trouble bonding with the baby
Changes in appetite
Thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby (in severe cases)
If these symptoms occur, reach out for professional support immediately.

4. What causes postpartum depression?

PPD doesn’t have a single cause — it’s usually a mix of factors such as:
Hormonal shifts after childbirth (estrogen and progesterone drop)
Physical recovery and sleep deprivation
Emotional stress from life changes or lack of support
Previous mental health issues (like anxiety or depression)
Complicated pregnancy or delivery experiences
Recognizing these risks early can help with prevention and quicker treatment.

5. How is postpartum depression treated?

Treatment depends on the severity and individual needs. It may include:

Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or counseling with a perinatal mental health specialist
Support groups: Sharing experiences with others going through similar challenges
Medication: Antidepressants prescribed by a doctor (some are safe for breastfeeding)Self-care and support: Adequate rest, balanced nutrition, and help from family/friends
With the right help, recovery is very possible — and reaching out early makes a big difference.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.