This National Safe Motherhood Day, let's raise awareness about the importance of maternal mental health! Join our virtual challenge to help break the stigma and encourage mothers to seek support.

This challenge encourages employees across all locations to participate in a global conversation about the importance of maternal mental health. By sharing stories, resources, and messages of support, we can create a more understanding and supportive environment for all.

Maternal mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being for both mothers and their children. Around 10% of pregnant women and 13% of women who have just given birth experience a mental disorder, primarily depression. These numbers are even higher in developing countries, reaching 15.6% during pregnancy and 19.8% after childbirth.

Untreated maternal mental disorders can have severe consequences. Mothers experiencing severe cases of depression or other disorders may struggle to function and care for themselves, impacting their children's growth and development. In the most tragic cases, mental health issues can lead to suicide.

Studies show a significant impact of maternal mental health on children. A recent analysis revealed that about 20% of mothers in developing countries suffer from clinical depression after childbirth. This depression can hinder a mother's ability to respond effectively to her child's needs and potentially lead to developmental delays. Research also suggests that treating maternal depression can improve a child's growth and development and reduce the risk of malnutrition and diarrhea.
While any woman can experience mental health issues during pregnancy or after childbirth, certain factors increase the risk. These include poverty, migration, exposure to violence (domestic, sexual, or gender-based), emergency situations, natural disasters, and low social support.

Mothers suffering from depression after childbirth may struggle to care for themselves and their infants. This can lead to neglect of basic needs and increase the risk of health problems for both mother and child. In extreme cases of mental illness, suicide becomes a tragic possibility. Additionally, mothers with mental disorders may struggle to form strong attachments with their infants, impacting breastfeeding and overall care.

Supporting Mothers' Mental Health: A Close Circle's Role

Mothers are the backbone of families, and their well-being directly impacts the entire household. During pregnancy and the early postpartum period, mothers are particularly vulnerable to experiencing mental health challenges like depression and anxiety. The good news is that those in a mother's close circle can play a crucial role in supporting her mental health.

• Be a Listening Ear: Create a safe space for mothers to express their anxieties and frustrations without judgment. Listen attentively and offer empathy. Sometimes, simply having someone to talk to can be incredibly therapeutic.
• Offer Emotional Encouragement: Positive affirmations and words of encouragement can go a long way. Remind the mother of her strengths and the amazing work she's doing.
  Lighten the Load: Share household chores and errands. Offering to cook meals, clean the house, or babysit can significantly reduce a mother's stress and allow her some much-needed time for self-care.
• Promoting Self-Care:
• Encourage Rest: Newborns require a lot of attention, and mothers often struggle to prioritize their sleep. Offer to watch the baby so the mother can get some uninterrupted rest.
• Support Healthy Habits: Encourage healthy eating and physical activity. Offer to accompany her for a walk or suggest healthy meal options. These activities can improve mood and overall well-being.
• Help Find Resources: Research and share information about local support groups, mental health professionals specializing in maternal health, or online resources.
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Be Patient and Understanding:

• Recognize the Transition: Pregnancy and motherhood involve significant physical and emotional changes. Be patient and understanding as the mother adjusts to her new role.
• Focus on Small Wins: Celebrate small victories, like getting a good night's sleep or taking a relaxing bath.
• Avoid Unrealistic Expectations: Don't put pressure on the mother to be "perfect." Remind her that it's okay to ask for help and take things one step at a time.
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  Share Your Thoughts or Experiences

Post a message of encouragement and support for mothers on social media. Use the hashtag #MaternalMentalHealthMatters.

You can share your own story (if you are comfortable), highlight available resources, or simply offer messages of kindness!

• Write a short message expressing your appreciation for someone who has supported your well-being. This could be a spouse, partner, parent, friend, therapist, or anyone who has made a positive impact.
• Briefly mention how their support could be relevant to maternal mental health.