Editorial
Help new mothers get over postpartum depression
Every expectant woman anticipates happiness and excitement following childbirth, but occasionally the unexpected can occur, as some mothers exhibit weird behaviour in the first few weeks following baby delivery.
While mood swings, anxiety, and trouble sleeping can persist for up to two weeks in some new mothers, more severe and persistent forms of depression affect other mothers.
Some of these new mothers isolate themselves from their loved ones and friends, cry a lot, lose their appetite or eat more than they should, get tired easily, and have trouble falling asleep.
Additional symptoms include a decrease in interest in activities the person enjoyed before having the baby, trouble bonding with the child, being extremely agitated, and harbouring the feelingthat she is a bad mother.
Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a disorder that may be diagnosed with persistent thoughts of death or suicide, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty thinking properly, intense anxiety, and panic attacks, according to specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr. Karen Renee Zu.
It is regrettable and depressing that some mothers must deal with these postpartum problems, which exacerbate their conditions, in spite of the many difficulties they confronted during pregnancy.
The Spectator wants mothers to get help from the proper health authorities and not to take their health problems lightly.
We also agree with Dr. Zu’s recommendation that the condition should not be ignored because failing to do so will make it more difficult for the mother to properly care for her child and handle other responsibilities.
We advise new mothers to seek medical attention as soon as they notice these symptoms, which can last for a long period after giving birth, in order to prevent any major health consequences.
Mothers’ health is especially important since they have a major role in the growth of the country as well as the families, communities, and children they raise.
Medical science states that there is no one cause for PPD, but rather that a combination of genetics, physical changes, and mental problems may contribute. As such, mothers should lead healthy lifestyles, incorporate exercise into their daily routines, and set reasonable goals in order to prevent feeling under pressure.
A family history of PPD, especially if it was severe, increases the chance of acquiring it again, according to genetic study. As a result, those with such a history should take efforts to prevent recurrence.
To reduce the stress that comes with caring for a newborn, we strongly advise husbands, other caregivers, and family members to assist new mothers. In order to rebuild their strength, the new mothers should also make time for relaxation.
It is crucial for those dealing with emotional difficulties to be sociable and ask for support from trusted friends when necessary. If you feel ill after giving birth, you should also consult an obstetrician-gynaecologist immediately.
Let us help new mothers get over postpartum depression.
Dear Editor,
It is often said that a healthy nation is a wealthy nation. However, this saying becomes worrying when the health of citizens is threatened by the conditions under which the food they consume daily is sold.
In Ghana, the conditions under which food is sold is quite disturbing. Over the years, I have observed that the environments where food is prepared and sold are often unhygienic.
In many cases, containers holding food such as rice and waakye are left uncovered or not properly covered, exposing them to contamination.
While many Ghanaians paid little attention in the past to the conditions under which food was sold, the narrative seems to be changing in recent years.
I recall an incident during my days in Senior High School (S.H.S.) when my friends and I went out to buy food. At one location, some of us chose not to buy because we assumed the food would be expensive due to how neat the place looked.
Unfortunately, we ended up purchasing food from a different place that was somewhat unhygienic. We overlooked the poor conditions because we believed the quantity offered was better than at the cleaner location.
However, I am certain that my friends and I would not repeat such a mistake today, as we now understand the health implications of that decision.
While public education is important in addressing this issue, I believe it is time for regulatory and law enforcement agencies, such as the Food and Drug Authority (FDA), to crack the whip on food sellers and vendors who operate in unhygienic environments and conditions.
As citizens, we must also be mindful of where we buy our food to protect ourselves and our families from diseases and illnesses. We should choose ‘quality’ over ‘quantity’ and prioritize our health.
From Syram
Oyarifa
Dear Editor,
I write to express concern and call for improved security measures before and after every football match.
The recent robbery attack that led to the tragic death of a player, on their return from a Match day 29 game against Samartex, is both shocking and heartbreaking.
The incident, which reportedly occurred around 10:30 p.m., highlights the growing risks faced by players and team officials while traveling.
Football is meant to unite and entertain, not to expose lives to danger. It is therefore imperative that authorities, the Ghana Football Association, and security agencies put in place adequate protection for teams, especially during late-night travels.
I strongly urge all stakeholders to treat this matter with urgency to prevent such unfortunate incidents from recurring.
From Eugene Ampiaw
Accra
