The Silent Struggle: Recognizing Postnatal Depression in the Workplace
I’ve spoken to many women over the years—friends, colleagues, even strangers at conferences—who’ve opened up about the emotional rollercoaster they faced after having a baby. And while the world tends to coo over the beautiful new arrival, very few ask the mother, “How are you doing… really?”
Postnatal depression (PND) isn’t something we talk about enough, especially in corporate spaces. And yet, so many women return to work, quietly carrying this invisible weight.
Understanding Postnatal Depression
Let’s start by clearing something up. Postnatal depression is not just feeling a little weepy after birth. That’s common and usually passes after a few days. PND is more persistent. It can look like extreme fatigue, emotional numbness, anxiety that won’t let you sleep even when the baby is finally down, or feeling completely disconnected from your baby or your former self.
And no, it’s not because the mother isn’t strong. It’s often a complex mix of hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and the enormous life shift that comes with caring for a newborn.
The Workplace Impact
Imagine returning to work after months of broken sleep, a whirlwind of baby milestones (and messes), and constant second-guessing. Now add depression into the mix. It’s not hard to see how productivity might dip or how concentration can falter.
But here’s the thing. Many mothers won’t speak up. They’re afraid of being seen as “not coping” or worry about losing opportunities. So they suffer in silence. That’s why awareness matters so much.
Creating a Supportive Environment
If you’re a leader or HR professional, or even just a colleague who cares, there are some small but meaningful ways to help:
- Offer real support through Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): And don’t just include them in a policy document. Talk about them. Share stories. Normalize their use. Let people know they’re not alone.
- Flexible Work Arrangements: Even just offering a few remote work days or shifting start times can make a huge difference to a mum still navigating sleepless nights.
- Train Your Managers: Help leaders spot the signs and respond with empathy, not judgement. A kind of conversation can sometimes be the first step toward healing.
- Build Peer Support Circles: It’s incredibly powerful for mothers to know they’re not the only ones feeling this way. Create safe spaces where stories can be shared without fear.
- Talk About Mental Health More Often: Not just once a year on Mental Health Day. Make it part of your culture, an ongoing conversation that invites honesty.
I believe that when we support mothers, we’re supporting families. And when families are supported, workplaces thrive. The journey back to work after childbirth shouldn’t be one of silence and struggle. It should be one where compassion leads the way.