• By Chollastic Tjehiua

In a country where motherhood is often wrapped in silence and unrealistic expectations, Morna Ikosa dares to speak the unspoken. With raw honesty and unwavering faith, the young Namibian writer, mother and wellness advocate, peels back the layers of cultural silence to unmask the truth too many women carry in silence, which is the reality of postnatal depression through. 

In her book, Ikosa takes pain, passion and purpose, transformed them into a powerful tool for healing and education. Her journey, both personal and professional, is now giving a voice to the countless Namibian women who silently struggle with postnatal depression.

Postnatal depression, also known as postpartum depression, is a type of mental condition that can occurs in women after childbirth, typically within the first year. It involves persistent feelings of sadness, low mood, and loss of interest in daily activities.
“Mental health is not always influenced by witchcraft. The brain is an organ, and when it is not well, it too needs to be treated like any part of your body,” are the words of Ikosa, who speaking of breaking cultural barriers in her new book, ‘Unmasking Postnatal Depression’.

The book is designed to engage the senses, which includes a downloadable song to accompany the reader’s encounter with every page. “My story is mostly in the first two chapters of the book. The rest of the chapters are stories of other women, men, and health professionals,” she mentions.

 “These voices span [beyond] cultures, professions and genders, each one helping to lift the veil on a topic too often dismissed or misunderstood. The book further draws wisdom from five respected experts, psychologist Ute Sinkala, medical doctor Ujama Nujoma, midwife Raghilt Redecker, lactation consultant Dorle Verrinder, and dietitian Juliane Courtney-Clarke, who specializes in depression. Together, they created a holistic resource for families, healthcare providers, and communities at large.

“This book is a beacon of hope for every woman who has been led to believe she is crazy or dramatic for struggling emotionally during and after pregnancy.” She further explained that in many Namibian homes, emotions tied to pregnancy and birth are supposed to be met with joy, not confusion or despair. 

“I experienced postnatal depression and overcame it. I want the book to spark conversation on the topic, which is often not spoken about in many African cultures.”  Her message to the youth, especially young women and aspiring writers, is simple, to start with something they are passionate about.  

“Sometimes people get intimidated by the blank white paper, but sometimes you just need to start. I have a very good support system, and I am disciplined in how I use my time often. I do not always get it right, but I try.”