By Seyi Odewale
In a heartfelt effort to bring hope and understanding to new mothers, Mums Feel Warmth, an inspiring initiative by MSc Media and Communication students from the School of Media and Communications, Pan-Atlantic University, is dedicated to empowering mothers and fostering a sense of reassurance.
As part of this mission, the initiative hosted a transformative webinar titled “Beyond Baby Blues: Understanding and Overcoming Postpartum Depression” on January 7, 2025, at 3pm.
The event sought to highlight the journey through Postpartum Depression (PPD), offering a message of hope, resilience, and the importance of mental health support for mothers everywhere.
With its core values of empathy, compassion, hope, community, and education, Mums Feel Warmth speaks to Sustainable Development Goal 3, advocating for good health and well-being.
The initiative is breaking the silence around Post-Partum Depression (PPD), a condition that can significantly impact new mothers in the critical period following childbirth.
The webinar featured insights from medical professionals like Dr Laja Odunuga, who explained the difference between the typical “baby blues” and the more severe, long-lasting PPD.
The discussion highlighted how PPD can manifest not just as sadness but through severe fatigue, disconnection from the new-born, and loss of interest in activities, which can last well beyond the typical two-week period associated with baby blues.
Otomfon Ibanga, emphasized the role of support systems, urging families and friends to be vigilant for signs of PPD and to provide a nurturing environment.
She also discussed prevention strategies, including prenatal planning for support structures and post-delivery management through therapy or medication.
Dr Chimaraoke Obialo addressed the stigma surrounding PPD, advocating for education to transform societal perceptions from judgment to support.
The webinar underscored the need for community involvement in recognizing symptoms and actively participating in the healing process by offering emotional and practical support.
The Mums Feel Warmth webinar was more than just an educational session; it was a call to action for society to embrace and support new mothers dealing with PPD.
By fostering open conversations and providing platforms for sharing experiences, Mums Feel Warmth continues to lead the charge against the stigma of PPD.
