PPD in Pakistan

The levels of non acceptance when it comes to mental health in Pakistan is astoundingly high. Combined with the added pressures of "we also had kids"; the stressors on Pre and Post Partum depression are sky high. It is not taken seriously: not by parents, partners, doctors and at times by the patients themselves. Suffering from any form of PPD or PPD triggered anxiety can cause serious long term damages to both the child and the mother. However, most women are unable to share their burdens with anyone without being belittled, ignored and mocked.

The official figures with relation to PPD in Pakistan are placed at 28 to 63% in a study conducted by the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses. Some of the most common reasons for lack of treatment are:

1- Inability to recognize PPD

2- Not considering mental illnesses a serious matter

3- Comparison to other mothers: new and old

4- Prevalent misconception that child birth is a normal thing

This is where an online secret community, aptly titles Glimmer of Hope Pakistan who has been at the forefront to help women who are unable to gain help otherwise. This community is run by Qurat Shaikh, a powerhouse mama of 2 who saw it as her dream to help women. She created the platform and enrolled a vast panel of therapists, psychiatrists and psychologists. But the most helpful aspect has been the scores of women added.

These women who have given birth and are facing insurmountable issues at home, are proof that PPD can be massively helped by understanding and actively helping the mothers. Not only are the panel extremely helpful, the other members all band together to lift members above and beyond and empower them to be beat the demons. Glimmer of hope Pakistan is a ray of hope for hundreds who can easily access an available ear as well as professional help from the ease of their smartphones.