How is it different from baby blues?
Baby blues lasts a few days after birth and lifts on its own. Postpartum depression lasts weeks or months, feels heavier, and needs support to lift.
Questions and answers
The things people ask us most. If yours is not here, just call or write.
About postpartum depression
The condition
How long does it last?
It varies. With support most mothers improve within months. Without it, it can last a year or longer.
Can it start during pregnancy?
Yes. Depression can begin before the birth as well as after it. The support is the same.
Can fathers get it?
Yes. Partners can experience depression after a birth too, and they deserve support as much as mothers do.
Will it affect my baby?
Untreated, it can affect bonding and a child's development. That is exactly why getting support early matters, and why this is worth asking about.
Is it my fault?
No. It is a medical condition affected by hormones, sleep, circumstances and support. Nothing you did caused it.
About our support
Counselling and support groups
Does it cost anything?
No. Our support groups and helpline are free.
Will you tell my family?
No. What you tell us stays with our support team. The one exception is if a child is at risk of serious harm, where we have a duty to act, and we would tell you that at the time.
Do I have to give my real name?
No. A first name or a nickname is fine, on the phone and on our forms.
Can I bring my baby to a group?
Yes, always. Most mothers do.
Do you prescribe medicine?
No. We are not a medical service. We can refer you to a clinic or health worker who can assess whether medication would help.
I do not live in Freetown. Can you still help?
Yes. Our WhatsApp peer support groups run nationwide, and we can refer you to a trained health worker near you.
Supporting our work
Donations, volunteering and partnerships
How can I give from outside Sierra Leone?
By international bank transfer today. We are working on card giving for overseas donors. See the donate page.
Is my donation tax deductible?
[VERIFY: depends on the international giving route chosen. Answer only once that decision is made.]
How do you spend donations?
On support groups, care packages, health worker training and outreach. We publish annual reports with figures.
Do I need qualifications to volunteer?
For most roles, no. We train you. Roles involving direct contact with mothers need a safeguarding check.
Can my organisation partner with you?
Very likely. See partner with us for the forms partnership can take.
Can I fundraise for you?
Yes, and thank you. Tell us your plan and we will send you materials you can use.