Postpartum Support

Motherhood can be one of the most beautiful and joyful parts of a woman’s life. But at the same time, for some women, it can be filled with difficulties and challenges that seem impossible to overcome. At Voice for Life, we want moms and their partners to feel supported during this critical period from birth until one-year postpartum. We are here to truthfully acknowledge the good and the difficult parts, without shame or judgement, and provide support, education, and resources to help families flourish.

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MAMA I JA

Perinatal Mood Disorders

Baby Blues or Depression?

Resources for Dads

 

MAMA I JA

Since 2024, Voice for Life has been proud to present “MAMA I JA,” a monthly program in Sarajevo for postpartum mothers and their babies up to 1 year old. In our relaxed atmosphere, moms will find a safe space for their babies, socialization with other moms, and informational presentations relevant to this season of motherhood. Crying, breastfeeding, diaper changes, and all the other “inconveniences” of babyhood are welcome! Find the latest schedule of events here.

Examples of past themes:

  • Sensory Activities

  • Car Seat Safety

  • Postpartum Exercise

  • And more!

Perinatal Mood Disorders

Perinatal mood disorders are mental health conditions that affect men and women during the pregnancy (prenatal) and post-birth (postpartum) period. They are the number one complication of childbirth worldwide. They can appear anytime during the 2-year period from conception to one-year postpartum, and affect both new parents and those who already have multiple children. According to the WHO, as many as 1 in 7 women worldwide will experience a perinatal mood disorder. Examples include:

  • Postpartum Depression (PPD)

  • Perinatal Panic Disorder

  • Anxiety

  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (ODC)

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from childbirth

  • Postpartum Psychosis (requires emergency help)

  • and others.

Many factors can lead to the development of perinatal mood disorders, including physical, emotional, and environmental stressors. Hormonal changes after childbirth, previous mental health issues, and a challenging birth experience can all contribute as well. One important thing to note is that perinatal mood disorders are not your fault. If you think you may be struggling with a perinatal mood disorder, know you are not alone. Getting help is vital for your recovery. Below is a list of resources for getting mental health assistance:

  • Here is a list of the Contact Phone Numbers for Psychological support at Dom Zdravlje in BiH.

  • This resource from Plavi Telephon will allow you to enter the symptoms you are experiencing and your location, and will give you a list of local providers.

    https://plavitelefon.ba/potrazi-pomoc-u-svojoj-blizini/

  • If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call your local emergency response number. In BiH, call 122 for the police or 124 for the ambulance. Those who are actively experiencing postpartum psychosis, or who are making threats to harm themselves, the baby, or others, MUST receive emergency care.

 

Voice for life is not a medical or mental health provider. If you or someone you know is facing an emergency, please dial your local emergency services (in BiH, 124 for the ambulance and 122 for the police).

Baby Blues or Postpartum Depression?

It’s common to wonder if what you are experiencing is something normal and temporary (sometimes referred to as “Baby Blues”) or something more serious requiring treatment (such as Postpartum Depression or other perinatal mood disorders). Below we list some of the common differences:

 

BABY BLUES

  • Around 8 in 10 moms will have baby blues

  • Lasts 1-2 weeks

  • Gets better on it’s own

  • Generally does not interfere with your ability to function on a daily basis

  • Mood swings

  • Easily tearful, usually for no apparent reason

  • Irritability; feeling frustrated or upset over minor things

  • Mild anxiety about being a good parent

  • Difficulty sleeping, usually related to the stress of being a new parent/caring for the baby

  • Minor appetite changes






POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION (PPD)

  • Around 1 in 10 moms will have PPD

  • Lasts for months or even years

  • Does not get better on it’s own

  • Interferes with your ability to function, care for yourself, and/or your baby

  • General, persistent sadness

  • Crying for prolonged periods of time, usually for no apparent reason

  • Loss of interest in activities that once were enjoyable or pleasurable

  • Overwhelming feelings of guilt; difficulty bonding with baby

  • Tiredness/exhaustion which is not relieved even when given the chance to rest

  • Appetite changes that lead to noticeable weight loss or gain

  • Scary thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby

 

Still not sure? The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is used by professionals all around the world to help identify moms who may be suffering from PPD. Click here to take the test in the B/C/S language. Please note that this quiz cannot diagnose PPD, but rather can help indicate if you are at risk.

Voice for Life is not a medical or mental health provider and as such cannot diagnose any health condition. The EDPS is offered as a free resource to the community, with which the user may follow-up with their healthcare provider. See above for a list of mental health resources.

Resources for Dads

While we often focus on women postpartum, we also need to remember that the father of the baby is experiencing many changes, challenges, and emotions. In fact, studies show up to 10% of men experience perinatal mood disorders. If you think you are struggling after the birth of your child, here are some practical steps to take:

  • Acknowledge it. Don’t ignore what's happening, and know it is not a personal weakness.

  • Communicate. Discuss how you’re feeling with your partner, friend, or family member.

  • Connect. Find other new fathers you can talk to.

  • Seek professional help. And know that’s okay to do, there is no shame in making sure you are healthy for your child and your partner.

Contact us if you would like to talk to one of Voice for Life’s male team members. Remember, you are not alone!