Every year, a significant number of mothers worldwide face postpartum depression, with a meta-analysis of 565 studies across 80 countries reporting a prevalence of 17.22%. In developing nations, this figure rises to 19.8%, and over half of cases go undiagnosed. In Sierra Leone, the situation is further complicated by the absence of vital support for new mothers, often leaving them to suffer in silence.
The birth of a baby in an African home is typically met with celebrations, but once the visitors leave, many struggles loom. In places like Sierra Leone, aftercare for new mothers often does not include checking their wellbeing, unlike in many Western clinics. This absence can lead to conditions such as postpartum depression, characterised by severe mood swings, hallucinations, and extreme detachment from the baby.
Doctors believe that rapid hormonal changes following childbirth, along with risk factors like a personal or family history of mental illness, contribute to postpartum psychosis, which can emerge within two weeks of delivery. Unlike the more benign baby blues, symptoms of postpartum psychosis demand immediate medical attention. Recent studies indicate that mental health issues post-delivery are prevalent yet often overlooked in Sierra Leone.
A report from Médecins Sans Frontières in 2019 highlighted a case of suspected postpartum psychosis in Gorama Mende, demonstrating the dire need for awareness. Evidence shows that 23% of pregnant women in Africa experience postpartum depression and anxiety. In Sierra Leone, stressors accumulate, with 61% of married women experiencing some form of spousal violence according to the Demographic and Health Survey.
The country has a troubled history of civil war and health crises, contributing to its rank as 182 out of 189 for mental health support in 2020. A 2022 study indicated that around 10% of malnourished pregnant women exhibited signs of depression. Unfortunately, there exists an estimated treatment gap of 98% for severe mental illnesses in Sierra Leone, meaning most mothers lack necessary support.
Dr. Samuel Sesay from Connaught Hospital notes that the low reporting of postpartum psychosis cases may stem from a lack of understanding within the community and the healthcare system. He emphasises the importance of raising awareness to ensure families recognise the signs and seek help early. Despite the presence of postpartum depression and psychosis, routine screening is not standard among healthcare providers in Sierra Leone.
Dr. Sesay calls for continuous education for health workers and increased public awareness to help families identify symptoms early and promote preventative healthcare measures during antenatal visits. By addressing the issue of postpartum psychosis, Sierra Leone can take a crucial step towards supporting the mental health of its mothers and ensuring they receive the care they need.
Key points
- Postpartum psychosis affects a significant number of mothers in Sierra Leone, with an estimated treatment gap of 98% for severe mental illnesses.
- The condition can emerge within two weeks of delivery, characterised by severe mood swings, hallucinations, and extreme detachment from the baby.
- Raising awareness and promoting education for health workers and the public are crucial steps towards supporting mothers with postpartum psychosis in Sierra Leone.
