Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week in Nigeria: Addressing the Growing Concern

Maternal mental health has become a growing concern in Nigeria, with an increasing number of women experiencing emotional distress before, during, and after childbirth. To address this issue, Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week is recognized every year from April 29 through May 5.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), maternal mental health problems, including postpartum depression and anxiety, affect up to 20% of women globally. In Nigeria, the situation is particularly severe due to limited access to healthcare, cultural stigmatisation, and pervasive poverty.

A report by the Federal Ministry of Health revealed that over 30% of mothers in Nigeria experience psychological distress during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Additionally, up to 10% of Nigerian women develop postpartum depression, with many cases going undiagnosed or untreated.

The consequences of poor maternal mental health can be severe, impacting not only the mother but also her child and family. Mothers with postpartum depression may struggle with bonding difficulties with their infants and carrying out daily activities. Untreated maternal mental health problems can also have long-term effects on the child’s development, leading to cognitive delays, behavioral problems, and poor educational outcomes.

Dr. Ada Ikeoko, a mental health coach and emotional health specialist, highlighted the wide range of symptoms associated with maternal mental health, including depression, stress, and post-traumatic stress. She emphasized the importance of acknowledging and understanding these issues to seek appropriate help.

Health experts stress that maternal mental health is not just a women’s issue; it affects partners, children, and society as a whole. Therefore, a comprehensive and integrated approach involving healthcare providers, policymakers, and community leaders is necessary.

The challenges of maternal mental health in Nigeria go beyond childbirth and the postpartum period. With over 60% of the population living below the poverty line, many women cannot afford quality healthcare, including mental health services. Social stigmatisation surrounding mental health issues, especially among women, further complicates the situation.

The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the already critical situation by increasing poverty, limiting access to healthcare facilities, and raising stress levels. Dr. Ikeoko noted the rise in anxiety, fear, panic, and other psychological issues associated with the pandemic.

To address this pressing issue, non-governmental organisations and mental health professionals in Nigeria are raising awareness and providing support services to affected mothers and families. The Nigerian government has also launched a Mental Health Action Plan to improve mental health services, including maternal mental health.

While efforts are being made to address maternal mental health, challenges such as limited budgets and capacity issues hinder the effectiveness of government initiatives. It is crucial for various stakeholders, including government, NGOs, and mental health professionals, to work together to ensure the well-being of women, children, families, and communities in Nigeria.