Editorial
Help new mothers get over postpartum depression
Every expectant woman anticipates happiness and excitement following childbirth, but occasionally the unexpected can occur, as some mothers exhibit weird behaviour in the first few weeks following baby delivery.
While mood swings, anxiety, and trouble sleeping can persist for up to two weeks in some new mothers, more severe and persistent forms of depression affect other mothers.
Some of these new mothers isolate themselves from their loved ones and friends, cry a lot, lose their appetite or eat more than they should, get tired easily, and have trouble falling asleep.
Additional symptoms include a decrease in interest in activities the person enjoyed before having the baby, trouble bonding with the child, being extremely agitated, and harbouring the feelingthat she is a bad mother.
Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a disorder that may be diagnosed with persistent thoughts of death or suicide, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty thinking properly, intense anxiety, and panic attacks, according to specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr. Karen Renee Zu.
It is regrettable and depressing that some mothers must deal with these postpartum problems, which exacerbate their conditions, in spite of the many difficulties they confronted during pregnancy.
The Spectator wants mothers to get help from the proper health authorities and not to take their health problems lightly.
We also agree with Dr. Zu’s recommendation that the condition should not be ignored because failing to do so will make it more difficult for the mother to properly care for her child and handle other responsibilities.
We advise new mothers to seek medical attention as soon as they notice these symptoms, which can last for a long period after giving birth, in order to prevent any major health consequences.
Mothers’ health is especially important since they have a major role in the growth of the country as well as the families, communities, and children they raise.
Medical science states that there is no one cause for PPD, but rather that a combination of genetics, physical changes, and mental problems may contribute. As such, mothers should lead healthy lifestyles, incorporate exercise into their daily routines, and set reasonable goals in order to prevent feeling under pressure.
A family history of PPD, especially if it was severe, increases the chance of acquiring it again, according to genetic study. As a result, those with such a history should take efforts to prevent recurrence.
To reduce the stress that comes with caring for a newborn, we strongly advise husbands, other caregivers, and family members to assist new mothers. In order to rebuild their strength, the new mothers should also make time for relaxation.
It is crucial for those dealing with emotional difficulties to be sociable and ask for support from trusted friends when necessary. If you feel ill after giving birth, you should also consult an obstetrician-gynaecologist immediately.
Let us help new mothers get over postpartum depression.
Editorial
ECG PowerApp: A mixed bag of technical issues, uncredited payment concerns
Dear Editor,
On February 18, 2020, the former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, launched the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) PowerApp, a mobile application designed in-house by staff of ECG.
It was to improve its service delivery to its customers.
The development of the app also meant that customers of ECG would now have the opportunity to purchase power and pay bills using their mobile phones.
That means customers of ECG would no longer have to join long queues to purchase power, but could now do that at their own convenience and in the comfort of their homes.
According to the Communication Officer, the PowerApp has increased annual revenue growth for the company.
He said as of April 2024, the new application system had increased its annual revenue growth by 128 per cent as compared to the old system at negative seven per cent.
Despite these reasons for which the app was developed and the benefits it has brought to ECG, there have been growing concerns among a section of the public on its use.
Some have argued that they were not credited after using the app to recharge their prepaid meter while the money was deducted from their MoMo accounts.
Such experience has made some customers vow not use the app to recharge their prepaid meters but rather go to prepaid vendors nearby to purchase credit. Some are even prepared to travel to far places to purchase prepaid credits.
I think such experience does not speak well of ECG because it could affect public trust in the company in its service delivery. This is the more reason why the ECG has to take the concerns raised by its customers seriously.
Kofi Bruce,
Mampong
Editorial
Our women can deliver
Dear Editor,
I write to congratulate the women that have so far caught the attention of President John Dramani Mahama for ministerial appointment.
So far, over 10 women have been vetted already and they all gave a very good account of themselves and I hope that they perform to the best of their abilities.
This is a good sign from President Mahama who demonstrated a strong resolve to provide an enabling environment for the women to be part of decision making by choosing a woman as his Vice President.
And true to his word, a number of women have been appointed in ministerial positions and others as presidential staffers.
I believe the other appointments to come would also have women making the cut.
This would be a morale booster for the young women out there who thinks that their position is the kitchen or in a man’s house as a wife.
This is a clear case of women given the urge to aim to rise above what society and traditional norms have set for them. I wish them well.
Maame Atta,
Kokompe
