Cardi B has been getting a lot of flak online due to her recent trip to Paris Fashion Week and her late-night shenanigans with her BFFs. Netizens are slamming the rapper for leaving her month-old daughter at home while she enjoys outside with her girlies.&nbsp;

The online backlash reached new heights when she was spotted partying through the night on Saturday at The Stafford Room. Extra tea! Cardi B's estranged husband Offset was also present at the nightclub, however, they arrived and left separately.&nbsp;

Taking to Instagram Live, the rapper clapped back at trolls and insisted that she is devoted to her little munchkin. She also revealed that she is partying with her BFFs because of postpartum depression and to drive away the divorce blues.

“I be with my baby all day…I need to go out,” Cardi B asserted. “I’m going through a divorce right now. If I stay home and f***ing depress myself, that s**t’s gonna drive me crazy. That’s why I’m working, and the weekends, I’m going out with my girls. So, stop. I don’t ever wanna go through a f***ing postpartum depression ever again, and I’m avoiding that.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/drake-slams-fake-friends-who-stabbed-him-in-the-back-and-switched-up-amid-beef-with-kendrick-lamar-765187">Drake slams fake friends 'who stabbed him in the back and switched up' amid beef with Kendrick Lamar</a>

During the Insta Live, she also revealed that her third pregnancy went way easier than her previous two pregnancies. “This baby just popped right out,” she explained. “I pushed the baby in seven minutes. When I gave birth, no lie, in one day I had such a burst of energy I wanted to conquer the world. But my other pregnancies, it wasn’t like that.”&nbsp;

Also watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-york-film-festival-inside-the-screening-of-the-friend-764926">New York Film Festival: Inside the screening of 'The Friend'</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/new-york-film-festival-inside-the-screening-of-the-friend-764926/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Cardi B and Offset secretly tied the knot in 2017. After nearly seven years of marital bliss, the two filed for divorce earlier this year and despite living under the same roof, the two are not planning to get back together. The two share three kids together: Kulture, Wave and their newborn whose name is yet to be revealed to the public.&nbsp;

Cardi B has been getting a lot of flak online due to her recent trip to Paris Fashion Week and her late-night shenanigans with her BFFs. Netizens are slamming the rapper for leaving her month-old daughter at home while she enjoys outside with her girlies.

Cardi B has been getting a lot of flak online due to her recent trip to Paris Fashion Week and her late-night shenanigans with her BFFs. Netizens are slamming the rapper for leaving her month-old daughter at home while she enjoys outside with her girlies. The online backlash reached new heights when she was spotted partying through the night on Saturday at The Stafford Room. Extra tea! Cardi B's estranged husband Offset was also present at the nightclub, however, they arrived and left separately. Taking to Instagram Live, the rapper clapped back at trolls and insisted that she is devoted to her little munchkin. She also revealed that she is partying with her BFFs because of postpartum depression and to drive away the divorce blues. “I be with my baby all day…I need to go out,” Cardi B asserted. “I’m going through a divorce right now. If I stay home and f***ing depress myself, that s**t’s gonna drive me crazy. That’s why I’m working, and the weekends, I’m going out with my girls. So, stop. I don’t ever wanna go through a f***ing postpartum depression ever again, and I’m avoiding that.” Also read: Drake slams fake friends 'who stabbed him in the back and switched up' amid beef with Kendrick Lamar During the Insta Live, she also revealed that her third pregnancy went way easier than her previous two pregnancies. “This baby just popped right out,” she explained. “I pushed the baby in seven minutes. When I gave birth, no lie, in one day I had such a burst of energy I wanted to conquer the world. But my other pregnancies, it wasn’t like that.” Also watch: New York Film Festival: Inside the screening of 'The Friend' Cardi B and Offset secretly tied the knot in 2017. After nearly seven years of marital bliss, the two filed for divorce earlier this year and despite living under the same roof, the two are not planning to get back together. The two share three kids together: Kulture, Wave and their newborn whose name is yet to be revealed to the public.

Cardi B claps back at trolls who criticise her for partying a month after giving birth

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Friday (August 4) approved the use of the Zurzuvae (zuranolone) pill to treat postpartum depression (PPD) in adults.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Friday (August 4) approved the use of the Zurzuvae (zuranolone) pill to treat postpartum depression (PPD) in adults. In a statement, the FDA said that the pill is to be taken once every day for 14 days during the evening with a fatty meal. The daily recommended dosage is 40 milligrams. The approval of Zurzuvae was granted to Sage Therapeutics, Inc, the statement added. Dr Tiffany Farchione, FDA’s director of psychiatric drugs, said, “Postpartum depression is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in which women experience sadness, guilt, worthlessness—even, in severe cases, thoughts of harming themselves or their child." "And, because postpartum depression can disrupt the maternal-infant bond, it can also have consequences for the child’s physical and emotional development,” Dr Farchione added. The studies conducted for Zurzuvae's efficacy The FDA said that the efficacy of Zurzuvae for the treatment of PPD in adults was demonstrated in two studies. The participants were women with PPD who met the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria for a major depressive episode and whose symptoms began in the third trimester or within four weeks of delivery. In the first study, the participants received 50 mg of Zurzuvae or placebo once daily in the evening for 14 days. In Study 2, patients received another zuranolone product that was approximately equal to 40 mg of Zurzuvae or placebo, also for 14 days. "Patients in both studies were monitored for at least four weeks after the 14-day treatment. The primary endpoint of both studies was the change in depressive symptoms using the total score from the 17-item Hamilton depression rating scale (HAMD-17), measured at day 15," the statement said. "Patients in the Zurzuvae groups showed significantly more improvement in their symptoms compared to those in the placebo groups. The treatment effect was maintained at Day 42—four weeks after the last dose of Zurzuvae," it added. What are the side effects of the drug? As per the FDA, the most common side effects of the drug include drowsiness, dizziness, diarrhoea, fatigue, and a common cold. The use of this drug may also cause suicidal thoughts and behaviour. "Zurzuvae may cause fetal harm," the statement said, adding women should use effective contraception while taking, and for one week after taking the drug. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: FDA approves first oral pill to treat postpartum depression. Check details here

Father's Day is a moment to honour the strength and love of fathers, but let us not forget the profound complexity of their journey. While mothers are celebrated for their kindness and open expression of love, fathers often stand in the background, silently supporting their children in every facet of life. From the very realisation of impending fatherhood to the tender moments that shape their child's existence, fathers play an indelible role. They hold their newborn in their arms, guide the first wobbly steps, celebrate triumphs, wipe away tears of parting, and revel in their child's milestones. These moments, seemingly ordinary, become the life-defining chapters for any father.

In a world that embraces change and inclusivity, we must acknowledge that fatherhood carries its own set of challenges. Beyond the surface of joyous moments and proud smiles, lies an unspoken reality: the silent struggle of postpartum depression in fathers. While postpartum depression is widely associated with mothers, it's crucial to recognise that fathers can also experience this emotional battle. Behind closed doors, new dads navigate a range of emotions, from the overwhelming responsibility of parenthood to feelings of anxiety, isolation, and self-doubt. Their stories remain untold, their pain often unseen.

This Father's Day, let us go beyond the surface, honouring the courage and resilience of fathers as they navigate the uncharted waters of fatherhood, sharing their untold stories and ensuring that their voices are heard and their struggles are acknowledged.

<h2 dir="ltr">The Myth of the Happy Father</h2>

Fatherhood is a transformative experience, filled with moments of joy, pride, and love. However, behind the facade of beaming smiles and contentment lies a truth that often goes unnoticed and unspoken. In a conversation with my colleague, Pratik Prasenjit, Senior Social Media Manager at WION, who recently became a father, he shared a special moment that encapsulated the profound joy and sense of responsibility that comes with being a father. 

Reflecting on a moment with his daughter within the first seven days of her arrival, Pratik recounted, "It was the third day following my daughter's birth. I had her in my arms as I sat in the hospital room. She looked up at me with her round, watery eyes. I started to sing to her, a lullaby that my mother used to sing to me when I was a child. She closed her eyes and listened, and I could feel her relax in my arms. When I was finished, she was asleep. I felt a wave of love wash over me, and a sense of peace and contentment that I had never felt before."

In that tender moment, Pratik experienced the immense bond between a father and his child, realizing the depth of love and connection that surpasses words. However, amidst these moments, it is also natural for fathers to experience anxiety and stress, particularly in their new role as a provider. In the pursuit of portraying a "happy father," society often overlooks the unresolved stress and issues that fathers face. These can stem from various sources such as work pressures, financial responsibilities, changes in relationships, and adjusting to the demands of parenthood. Fathers may internalize their struggles, fearing judgment or feeling compelled to prioritize their family's well-being above their own. However, neglecting their own mental health can have long-lasting effects.

<h2 dir="ltr">The Unspoken Burden: The Emotional Toll on Fathers</h2>

In the realm of postpartum depression, fathers bear an unspoken burden often overshadowed by the focus on mothers. Fathers may grapple with doubts and insecurities, questioning their abilities and worrying about making mistakes. The weight of responsibility and the desire to be the best father possible can contribute to feelings of self-doubt and even lead to a sense of isolation. 
 
Dr Ruchi Tandon, Co-founder of Queen's Gynecology and a Senior Consultant Gynecologist and Obstetrician, highlights the evolving dynamics of fatherhood and the added stress they face in the modern era. 
 
She shares,&nbsp;"During pregnancy, fathers are deeply curious about the well-being of their wife and child, balancing excitement with the tension of health concerns. In a country like India, where many women are housewives, men actively engage in the financial aspects of pregnancy and the subsequent well-being of the mother and child. The pressure to be an 'equal contributor' in every aspect of pregnancy can lead to significant stress, exhaustion, and even pave the way for postpartum depression."

<h2 dir="ltr">Postpartum Depression - Breaking the Silence</h2>

The arrival of a new baby brings joy, but it also brings a whirlwind of changes, sleepless nights, and added responsibilities. These factors, coupled with hormonal changes and the pressure to provide for their family, can take a toll on a father's mental health. In a thought-provoking conversation with Dr Deepak Raheja, Director &amp; Chief Psychiatrist at Hope Care India, he provided valuable insights into the often-overlooked issue of postpartum depression in new fathers and the social stigma surrounding it. 
 
According to Dr Raheja,&nbsp;“Postpartum depression in men is a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. Factors such as lack of sleep, increased stress, and the challenges of adapting to the new and evolving role of a father can all contribute to the onset of postpartum depression in men. However, the stigma associated with postpartum depression can vary across cultures and countries, and it remains a significant issue in India”. 

Dr Raheja also highlighted several key factors contributing to the stigma:

<ol>
	<li dir="ltr">
	Stereotypes around gender roles
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	Cultural expectations
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	Lack of awareness and knowledge
	</li>
</ol>

<h2 dir="ltr">Navigating Fatherhood: Recognising the Signs of Postpartum Depression</h2>

In the journey of fatherhood, embracing emotional complexities is vital, including the risk of postpartum depression. Dr Tandon also highlights symptoms like persistent sadness, irritability, loss of interest, changes in appetite or sleep, and difficulty bonding with the baby as indicators in fathers. Postpartum depression affects both men and women, but the underlying biological and hormonal factors contributing to this condition differ between the genders. Both Dr Raheja and Dr Tandon confirmed the hormonal differences between mothers and fathers in the onset of postpartum depression. Biological factors such as hormonal changes, including a reduction in testosterone levels and an increase in prolactin and cortisol levels, can contribute to postpartum depression. Proactive recognition and addressing these factors as a unit can help new parents navigate their emotions and foster an empathetic environment for the mental health and well-being of their child.

<h2 dir="ltr">The Importance of Support and Understanding: Nurturing Fathers' Emotional Well-being</h2>

The postpartum period is a transformative journey for both parents, yet fathers often face a lack of support and understanding. In a candid conversation, Pratik revealed that amidst the stress of pregnancy and the arrival of their little one, he and his partner had not discussed postpartum depression. This highlights how fathers can unintentionally neglect their own mental health while striving to fulfil the provider role and embody the image of an unbreakable hero. Society's expectations that men should remain stoic hinder their ability to express vulnerabilities and seek help. It is crucial to prioritize fathers' mental well-being through open conversations and accessible resources, creating a balanced and supportive postpartum experience for both parents.

<h2 dir="ltr">Conclusion</h2>

Father's Day is a special occasion to celebrate the invaluable role of fathers in our lives. While we honour their strength and love, it is equally important to acknowledge the challenges they face, including postpartum depression. 
 
Fathers are our first heroes, always striving to make us champions, but it's essential to recognize that even superheroes have moments of weakness and anxiety. The journey of fatherhood is multifaceted, and it demands our attention and warmth to ensure fathers receive the support they need. By unmasking the untold stories of new dads, we can foster a compassionate and understanding environment for all fathers. On this Father's Day, let us appreciate and champion the well-being of fathers, not only on this special day but every day.

&nbsp;

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Father's Day is a moment to honour the strength and love of fathers, but let us not forget the profound complexity of their journey. While mothers are celebrated for their kindness and open expression of love, fathers often stand in the background, silently supporting their children in every facet of life.

Father's Day is a moment to honour the strength and love of fathers, but let us not forget the profound complexity of their journey. While mothers are celebrated for their kindness and open expression of love, fathers often stand in the background, silently supporting their children in every facet of life. From the very realisation of impending fatherhood to the tender moments that shape their child's existence, fathers play an indelible role. They hold their newborn in their arms, guide the first wobbly steps, celebrate triumphs, wipe away tears of parting, and revel in their child's milestones. These moments, seemingly ordinary, become the life-defining chapters for any father. In a world that embraces change and inclusivity, we must acknowledge that fatherhood carries its own set of challenges. Beyond the surface of joyous moments and proud smiles, lies an unspoken reality: the silent struggle of postpartum depression in fathers. While postpartum depression is widely associated with mothers, it's crucial to recognise that fathers can also experience this emotional battle. Behind closed doors, new dads navigate a range of emotions, from the overwhelming responsibility of parenthood to feelings of anxiety, isolation, and self-doubt. Their stories remain untold, their pain often unseen. This Father's Day, let us go beyond the surface, honouring the courage and resilience of fathers as they navigate the uncharted waters of fatherhood, sharing their untold stories and ensuring that their voices are heard and their struggles are acknowledged. The Myth of the Happy Father Fatherhood is a transformative experience, filled with moments of joy, pride, and love. However, behind the facade of beaming smiles and contentment lies a truth that often goes unnoticed and unspoken. In a conversation with my colleague, Pratik Prasenjit, Senior Social Media Manager at WION, who recently became a father, he shared a special moment that encapsulated the profound joy and sense of responsibility that comes with being a father. Reflecting on a moment with his daughter within the first seven days of her arrival, Pratik recounted, "It was the third day following my daughter's birth. I had her in my arms as I sat in the hospital room. She looked up at me with her round, watery eyes. I started to sing to her, a lullaby that my mother used to sing to me when I was a child. She closed her eyes and listened, and I could feel her relax in my arms. When I was finished, she was asleep. I felt a wave of love wash over me, and a sense of peace and contentment that I had never felt before." In that tender moment, Pratik experienced the immense bond between a father and his child, realizing the depth of love and connection that surpasses words. However, amidst these moments, it is also natural for fathers to experience anxiety and stress, particularly in their new role as a provider. In the pursuit of portraying a "happy father," society often overlooks the unresolved stress and issues that fathers face. These can stem from various sources such as work pressures, financial responsibilities, changes in relationships, and adjusting to the demands of parenthood. Fathers may internalize their struggles, fearing judgment or feeling compelled to prioritize their family's well-being above their own. However, neglecting their own mental health can have long-lasting effects. The Unspoken Burden: The Emotional Toll on Fathers In the realm of postpartum depression, fathers bear an unspoken burden often overshadowed by the focus on mothers. Fathers may grapple with doubts and insecurities, questioning their abilities and worrying about making mistakes. The weight of responsibility and the desire to be the best father possible can contribute to feelings of self-doubt and even lead to a sense of isolation. Dr Ruchi Tandon, Co-founder of Queen's Gynecology and a Senior Consultant Gynecologist and Obstetrician, highlights the evolving dynamics of fatherhood and the added stress they face in the modern era. She shares, "During pregnancy, fathers are deeply curious about the well-being of their wife and child, balancing excitement with the tension of health concerns. In a country like India, where many women are housewives, men actively engage in the financial aspects of pregnancy and the subsequent well-being of the mother and child. The pressure to be an 'equal contributor' in every aspect of pregnancy can lead to significant stress, exhaustion, and even pave the way for postpartum depression." Postpartum Depression - Breaking the Silence The arrival of a new baby brings joy, but it also brings a whirlwind of changes, sleepless nights, and added responsibilities. These factors, coupled with hormonal changes and the pressure to provide for their family, can take a toll on a father's mental health. In a thought-provoking conversation with Dr Deepak Raheja, Director & Chief Psychiatrist at Hope Care India, he provided valuable insights into the often-overlooked issue of postpartum depression in new fathers and the social stigma surrounding it. According to Dr Raheja, “Postpartum depression in men is a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. Factors such as lack of sleep, increased stress, and the challenges of adapting to the new and evolving role of a father can all contribute to the onset of postpartum depression in men. However, the stigma associated with postpartum depression can vary across cultures and countries, and it remains a significant issue in India”. Dr Raheja also highlighted several key factors contributing to the stigma: Stereotypes around gender roles Cultural expectations Lack of awareness and knowledge Navigating Fatherhood: Recognising the Signs of Postpartum Depression In the journey of fatherhood, embracing emotional complexities is vital, including the risk of postpartum depression. Dr Tandon also highlights symptoms like persistent sadness, irritability, loss of interest, changes in appetite or sleep, and difficulty bonding with the baby as indicators in fathers. Postpartum depression affects both men and women, but the underlying biological and hormonal factors contributing to this condition differ between the genders. Both Dr Raheja and Dr Tandon confirmed the hormonal differences between mothers and fathers in the onset of postpartum depression. Biological factors such as hormonal changes, including a reduction in testosterone levels and an increase in prolactin and cortisol levels, can contribute to postpartum depression. Proactive recognition and addressing these factors as a unit can help new parents navigate their emotions and foster an empathetic environment for the mental health and well-being of their child. The Importance of Support and Understanding: Nurturing Fathers' Emotional Well-being The postpartum period is a transformative journey for both parents, yet fathers often face a lack of support and understanding. In a candid conversation, Pratik revealed that amidst the stress of pregnancy and the arrival of their little one, he and his partner had not discussed postpartum depression. This highlights how fathers can unintentionally neglect their own mental health while striving to fulfil the provider role and embody the image of an unbreakable hero. Society's expectations that men should remain stoic hinder their ability to express vulnerabilities and seek help. It is crucial to prioritize fathers' mental well-being through open conversations and accessible resources, creating a balanced and supportive postpartum experience for both parents. Conclusion Father's Day is a special occasion to celebrate the invaluable role of fathers in our lives. While we honour their strength and love, it is equally important to acknowledge the challenges they face, including postpartum depression. Fathers are our first heroes, always striving to make us champions, but it's essential to recognize that even superheroes have moments of weakness and anxiety. The journey of fatherhood is multifaceted, and it demands our attention and warmth to ensure fathers receive the support they need. By unmasking the untold stories of new dads, we can foster a compassionate and understanding environment for all fathers. On this Father's Day, let us appreciate and champion the well-being of fathers, not only on this special day but every day. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Unveiling the silent pain: The emotional journey of new dads battling postpartum depression | Father's Day

I don&rsquo;t exactly remember how long ago I became acquainted with the term depression, but I do remember not understanding its connotation up until a few years ago.

&ldquo;Mental health&rdquo; is something we Indians are not very comfortable discussing. It&rsquo;s not an actual disease, they say. You only go to a psychologist or a therapist if you&rsquo;re insane, they say.

Yet, World Health Organization (WHO) says India is the most depressed nation in the world with 36 per cent of Indians having suffered from a major depressive episode (MDE).

WHO also states that women are more prone to depression than men, where the burden of depression is 50 per cent higher among females as compared to men.

Largely goes undiagnosed

Ruchika Kanwal, Clinical Psychologist at Karma Centre for Counselling and Wellbeing, says depression largely goes undiagnosed among women, specifically among the ones who stay at home.

Why does that happen, I ask

&quot;The immediate social circle that they (housewives) have are women who are mostly housewives. When they discuss their issues, they&rsquo;re mostly struggling with the same symptoms. They then tend to normalise it because everybody is going through the same thing,&quot; says Ms Kanwal.

She adds that these women don&rsquo;t understand that there are certain symptoms that are beyond normal, clinically speaking. This leads to depression largely going undiagnosed.

Burden on women

Postpartum depression is a type of clinical depression may affect women after childbirth. The symptoms include insomnia, irritability, social isolation, fatigue, etc.

There are more than 10 million cases of postpartum depression per year in India. Those who develop postpartum depression are also at a greater risk of developing major depression later on in life.

Left untreated, postpartum depression can interfere with mother-child bonding and cause family problems. Children of mothers who have untreated postpartum depression are more likely to have emotional and behavioural problems, such as sleeping and eating difficulties, excessive crying, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Manavi Khurana says a lot of women they see at their clinic don&rsquo;t get help with child rearing. It&rsquo;s always the woman&rsquo;s job to take care of the child, she adds.

&quot;We&rsquo;ve had clients who are very upset because their husbands give them absolutely no share in power at home. So that is one of the causes of postpartum depression among women,&quot; says Ms Khurana.

Ms Khurana is a Counselling Psychologist. She is also the founder of the Karma Centre for Counselling and Wellbeing.

But what causes depression among these women?

Some common symptoms of depression are loss of appetite, insomnia, restlessness, experiencing negative thoughts, hopelessness, among many others.

I asked Ms Kanwal what exactly triggers depression among Indian women.

She says because women are suppressed in India, they don&rsquo;t go out and talk about their problems, which in the long run leads to depression.

&ldquo;Internalised disorders are more prevalent among people who do not express themselves as much. Women are not motivated to go out and talk about their problem,&rdquo; Ms Kanwal says.

She continues, &ldquo;So when they don&rsquo;t have that support system to vent out, they keep internalising it and exhaust all the coping skills they have. When you don&rsquo;t have that platform, it will take a toll 
on your health.&rdquo;

How to deal with it

The first step towards recovery, says Ms Kanwal, is to make the patients believe they&rsquo;re not weak because they&rsquo;ve been&nbsp;suffering from depression and that depression doesn&rsquo;t mean that you&rsquo;re a failure in dealing with your everyday problems.

The patient should then seek for support from family and friends, as well as a professional which could include a counsellor, psychologist or a psychiatrist.

&quot;Because it&rsquo;s a psycho-social disorder, you should avail therapy and counselling along with medication so that whatever negative thoughts or altered perception you have, you could be helped with it,&quot; says Ms Kanwal. &nbsp;

The treatment, like the condition itself, varies from person to person. So there is no clear-cut formula to overcome depression. But keeping it to yourself certainly isn&rsquo;t the answer.

Lastly, spreading awareness about mental health issues and breaking the stigma around it should be the topmost priority. Without that, patients will keep on suffering in silence. 
 
(WION)

 
&nbsp;

Depression largely goes undiagnosed among women, specifically among ones who stay at home, Clinical Psychologist Ruchika Kanwal tells WION

I don’t exactly remember how long ago I became acquainted with the term depression, but I do remember not understanding its connotation up until a few years ago. “Mental health” is something we Indians are not very comfortable discussing. It’s not an actual disease, they say. You only go to a psychologist or a therapist if you’re insane, they say. Yet, World Health Organization (WHO) says India is the most depressed nation in the world with 36 per cent of Indians having suffered from a major depressive episode (MDE). WHO also states that women are more prone to depression than men, where the burden of depression is 50 per cent higher among females as compared to men. Largely goes undiagnosed Ruchika Kanwal, Clinical Psychologist at Karma Centre for Counselling and Wellbeing, says depression largely goes undiagnosed among women, specifically among the ones who stay at home. Why does that happen, I ask "The immediate social circle that they (housewives) have are women who are mostly housewives. When they discuss their issues, they’re mostly struggling with the same symptoms. They then tend to normalise it because everybody is going through the same thing," says Ms Kanwal. She adds that these women don’t understand that there are certain symptoms that are beyond normal, clinically speaking. This leads to depression largely going undiagnosed. Burden on women Postpartum depression is a type of clinical depression may affect women after childbirth. The symptoms include insomnia, irritability, social isolation, fatigue, etc. There are more than 10 million cases of postpartum depression per year in India. Those who develop postpartum depression are also at a greater risk of developing major depression later on in life. Left untreated, postpartum depression can interfere with mother-child bonding and cause family problems. Children of mothers who have untreated postpartum depression are more likely to have emotional and behavioural problems, such as sleeping and eating difficulties, excessive crying, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Manavi Khurana says a lot of women they see at their clinic don’t get help with child rearing. It’s always the woman’s job to take care of the child, she adds. "We’ve had clients who are very upset because their husbands give them absolutely no share in power at home. So that is one of the causes of postpartum depression among women," says Ms Khurana. Ms Khurana is a Counselling Psychologist. She is also the founder of the Karma Centre for Counselling and Wellbeing. But what causes depression among these women? Some common symptoms of depression are loss of appetite, insomnia, restlessness, experiencing negative thoughts, hopelessness, among many others. I asked Ms Kanwal what exactly triggers depression among Indian women. She says because women are suppressed in India, they don’t go out and talk about their problems, which in the long run leads to depression. “Internalised disorders are more prevalent among people who do not express themselves as much. Women are not motivated to go out and talk about their problem,” Ms Kanwal says. She continues, “So when they don’t have that support system to vent out, they keep internalising it and exhaust all the coping skills they have. When you don’t have that platform, it will take a toll on your health.” How to deal with it The first step towards recovery, says Ms Kanwal, is to make the patients believe they’re not weak because they’ve been suffering from depression and that depression doesn’t mean that you’re a failure in dealing with your everyday problems. The patient should then seek for support from family and friends, as well as a professional which could include a counsellor, psychologist or a psychiatrist. "Because it’s a psycho-social disorder, you should avail therapy and counselling along with medication so that whatever negative thoughts or altered perception you have, you could be helped with it," says Ms Kanwal. The treatment, like the condition itself, varies from person to person. So there is no clear-cut formula to overcome depression. But keeping it to yourself certainly isn’t the answer. Lastly, spreading awareness about mental health issues and breaking the stigma around it should be the topmost priority. Without that, patients will keep on suffering in silence. (WION)

International Women's Day: Why are Indian women depressed?

postpartum-depression

Postpartum Depression, News on Postpartum Depression, stories on Postpartum Depression, articles on Postpartum Depression, Postpartum Depression stories at Wion, Postpartum Depression news, Postpartum Depression latest news