Mental Health Archives

Maternal Mental Health and Return to Work for New Moms

Every May, Maternal Mental Health Day raises awareness about the mental well-being of mothers during and after pregnancy, aiming to break the stigma surrounding maternal mental health. It highlights the importance of prioritizing their mental well-being. During pregnancy, many women experience the ‘baby blues,’ showing symptoms such as irritability, fatigue, and anxiety. Additionally, around 20% of new mothers exhibit signs of postpartum disorders, which include emotions like anger, guilt, and disinterest in their baby. Moreover, many mothers return to work within three months after giving birth, adding another layer of challenge as they adjust to their new normal. Let’s delve into details to understand what you can do and how you and your employer can make this transition easier for you.

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Understanding and dealing with your child’s behavior

Tantrums are part of the toddler years as your child discovers their independence, learns to communicate, and figures out how to manage their emotions. Some triggers can make behavior more difficult at times.

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Overcoming Depression During Pregnancy

May is a Maternal Mental Health awareness month and gives us a great opportunity to talk more about it. Pregnancy is a complex physiological state that comes with a lot of changes. No wonder, during pregnancy, our mental health may be challenged the same way as our muscles, ligaments, and bones. Among the most common mental issues that pregnant women face is depression. It is a mood disorder caused by disturbances of certain chemicals in the brain. It is not something you can turn on and off. Studies confirm that 30% of pregnant women would experience some depression throughout gestation, with 9% meeting the criteria of major depression. The symptoms are more common during the 1st and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy.

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The parent’s guide to autism: How to spot the signs and get the help you need

As a mother, it is natural to have concerns about your child’s development. One issue that may arise is suspecting autism in your child. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can affect a child’s communication, social interaction, and behavior. A review of studies found that around 15 out of every 10,000 children in the MENA region are affected by ASD, but this number can vary across countries. In the UAE, a study showed that about 18 out of every 1,000 children have ASD, and they are usually diagnosed around 4.4 years old, which is later than recommended.

Early identification and intervention are essential in managing the symptoms of autism and improving the quality of life for your child. This article will explore how to recognize autism in your child and the best ways to deal with it.

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Postpartum depression and mental illnesses

Childbirth is a time of immense vulnerability for women as it is physically and mentally exhausting. Hence some childbearing women tend to face mental issues following the delivery. Although postpartum mental illnesses are considered significant health issues worldwide, only a few cases are diagnosed and managed promptly. People often refuse to address these issues at the right time. Women are reluctant to seek professional help because they aren’t willing to disclose their emotional issues.

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Nightmares and night terrors in children

Most parents have experienced comforting their children after nightmare episodes. But have you seen an episode of what’s known as a night terror? A night terror is like nightmares but is far more dramatic. Though nightmares or terrors can be alarming for parents who witness them, they are not usually signs of a deeper medical issue.

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