Pregnancy and childbirth have countless effects on the female body, many of which we are familiar with: weight gain, fatigue and painful breasts. However, we often largely ignore one of the major mental effects that is common amongst new mothers: postpartum depression.
Postpartum depression is estimated to affect 16% of women giving birth in Australia. Furthermore, approximately 85% experience some type of emotional disturbance post-delivery. With nearly 1 in every 6 new mothers experiencing depression following childbirth, the topic is shockingly neglected and under-discussed.
Societal expectations of motherhood as a exclusively happy experience result in the stigmatisation of postpartum depression and therefore, can cause feelings of shame in mothers who experience it. The lack of discussion of postpartum depression in the public sphere prolongs the vicious cycle, as awareness is lacking, particularly in realising how common this issue actually is.
In a recent interview on Live! with Kelly and Michael, American actress, Hayden Panettiere, opened up about her negative experiences following the birth of her child in December 2014.
“When [you’re told] about postpartum depression you think it’s ‘I feel negative feelings towards my child. I want to injure or hurt my child. I’ve never, ever had those feelings. Some women do.'” Panettiere stated.
“But you don’t realise how broad of a spectrum you can really experience that on. It’s something that needs to be talked about. Women need to know that they’re not alone, and that it does heal.”
Panettiere’s acknowledgement of her own experiences with postpartum depression has been important in creating mainstream and widespread awareness, particularly in addressing many misunderstandings surrounding the issue.
Healthy discussion about the prevalence, causes and impacts of postpartum depression are needed to destigmatise a condition that is all too common in modern motherhood. It’s important that we recognise and accept the wide spectrum of experiences, positive and negative, that are encompassed by motherhood. Because there is always #BeautyInTheStruggle.
MM
The Modern Motherhood Project 
Such an important issue to raise awareness of. Most people don’t know the horrible effects of postpartum depression. Its wonderful to see a celebrity figure opening up about her experience. Hopefully this will encourage others to share their stories!
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This topic is rarely spoken about so it’s so refreshing to see a post like this. Thanks so much for sharing!
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It’s true this topic is never really at the forefront of any discussion! I think new mothers often feel quite pressured to act and feel a certain way, and it’s definitely not the case! It’s great to see celebrities openly talk about it.
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What a sensitive and insightful article. Really enjoyed it. It’s impossible not to sympathise, and hopefully in the future more dialogue about this issue will happen.
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This is really cool! Fantastic inspiring blog
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It’s really shocking how common post-pardum is considering the lack of awareness the issue receives. Props to Hayden for opening up about experiencing such a stigmatised and misunderstood issue!
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This is such a greatly written piece that is truly inspiring. I am a strong advocate for post natal depression and women who suffer in silence, I think when others especially famous people open up it creates a huge opportunity for others to do so to.
Can’t wait to read more of your posts.
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It’s so great that she’s open about talking about this. Women need to know that it’s okay to feel this way, and it doesn’t make them a bad mother for doing this.
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“Women need to know that it’s okay to feel this way, and it doesn’t make them a bad mother for doing this.”
Pretty much the core idea of The Modern Motherhood Project. Thank you!
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Love this woman, its powerful when celebrities who have endless resources available to them also go through such human things. Great piece.
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