Postpartum depression is being highlighted as an issue that needs greater awareness and support for mothers.

ASK4HELP Founder and Executive Director Asinate Savu Korocawiri said that one in seven women worldwide are affected, but the condition is still not well understood.

Korocawiri added that postpartum depression can affect more than just the mother, impacting her children, family and wider community.

“The need to conduct a dialogue has come about because postpartum depression affects one in seven women around the world” Korocawiri highlighted.

“It is not something that is well known or being focused on, so this is a focus area where we have tried to shine the light on this big issue” she added.

Korocawiri said families and communities need to better understand the signs of postpartum depression and know where mothers can get help.

She added that dialogues organised is about listening to mothers and connecting them with the right services and support.

“First, we listen. What are we listening for? We are listening to mothers and to their lived experiences. Two, we are connecting” she said.

“We are connecting with mothers, with families, communities, services and people who can help. And three, act. Because awareness without action will not change the experience of a mother who is suffering from postpartum depression” she added.

BY: JOELI RAGONELIWA