About 2000 mothers could suffer from post-partum depression annually in Fiji, says Women’s Minister Sashi Kiran.
Speaking at the 21st Anniversary of the Psychiatric Survivors Association in Suva last week, Ms Kiran said too often, postpartum depression was misunderstood or dismissed, leaving women vulnerable at a time when they most needed compassion.
“We no longer have the family support system that used to wrap new mums,” she said.
“It is estimated that up to 2000 mothers could suffer from post-partum depression per year in Fiji with at least 500 needing medical attention but hospitals have not recorded such treatment with only seven referrals to St Giles hospital in the past few years.
“But many mothers with psychosocial challenges are also delivering babies, often with no support or very poor understanding of how childbirth could affect her.
Ms Kiran said the launch of PSA’s booklet for expecting mothers with psychosocial disabilities was therefore essential.
