When researchers from Far Eastern University and a global team looked into how Filipino mothers were doing emotionally, they found something that surprised even them. Out of a nationwide sample of 856 women, 69.1% of pregnant women and 62.0% of postpartum women reported symptoms of depression that were serious enough to need attention. That means roughly 3 out of every 5 new and expecting mothers in the study were struggling with what doctors call perinatal depression — depression that happens during pregnancy or after childbirth.
This number is more than double the global average of 25%. For context, the global average means that in many other countries, about 1 in 4 mothers experience this. In the Philippines, based on this study, it looks closer to 3 in 5. That is a big difference, and it raises a lot of questions about what is happening and what support looks like for Filipino women. The study was published in BMJ Open and is part of a larger effort called the COCOON Global Study, which involves 15 countries. The data was collected during and right after the COVID-19 pandemic, which likely made things harder for many families.
This topic matters because in the Philippines, motherhood is often celebrated as a joyful time. But the research shows that for many women, it is also a time of deep struggle. If you are a new mom or know one, understanding these numbers can help you recognize that what you are feeling is not rare, and it is not your fault. It also shows why we need to talk about this more openly.
What Perinatal Depression Actually Looks Like
The study found that these symptoms were consistent across all three trimesters of pregnancy and for at least 12 months after giving birth. Some women even had symptoms beyond that. So this is not just a short phase — it can last a long time if not addressed.
What the Research Doesn’t Fully Agree On
One thing that stands out from the study is that the numbers are much higher than the global average. But researchers are not 100% sure why. Some think it could be because the data was collected during the COVID-19 pandemic, which added extra stress like isolation, financial worries, and fear of getting sick. Others think it might reflect a real gap in mental health support in the Philippines. The truth is probably a mix of both.
Another thing that is not fully clear is how much of this depression was already there before pregnancy. The study did not track women before they got pregnant, so we do not know if some of them were already struggling with depression before. What we do know is that the symptoms were very high during pregnancy and after birth, which means the perinatal period itself is a vulnerable time.
There is also a common misunderstanding that postpartum depression only happens to mothers who had a difficult birth or who are first-time moms. But the study found that it affects women of all ages, all pregnancy trimesters, and even those who had normal deliveries. Younger mothers (ages 18–24) and single mothers were at higher risk, but no one is immune.
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| Group | Risk Level | What the Study Found |
|---|---|---|
| Younger mothers (18–24) | Higher | Had higher EPDS scores compared to older mothers. The risk was about 23% higher. |
| Single mothers | Higher | Had higher EPDS scores compared to married mothers. The risk was about 42% higher. |
| Mothers with adequate prenatal care | Lower | Had lower depressive symptoms during pregnancy and after birth. Good check-ups helped. |
Things That Catch People Off Guard
It can start during pregnancy, not just after birth
Many people think postpartum depression starts after the baby is born. But the study found that 69.1% of pregnant women already had significant symptoms. That means depression can hit during pregnancy, and it is just as serious. A woman might feel guilty for not feeling happy about her pregnancy, but the research shows this is a real medical issue, not a personal failing.
Younger and single mothers face extra challenges
The study found that mothers aged 18–24 had higher depression scores than older mothers. Single mothers also had higher scores. This makes sense when you think about it — younger moms might have less life experience, less financial stability, and less support. Single mothers carry the weight of parenting alone. The research suggests these groups need extra attention and support.
Good prenatal care makes a real difference
One of the most hopeful findings from the study is that women who had adequate prenatal care — meaning regular check-ups with a healthcare provider — had lower depressive symptoms. This is important because it shows that the healthcare system can help. If a woman gets good care during pregnancy, it might protect her mental health. But many women in the Philippines do not have access to consistent prenatal care, especially in rural areas.
Support from family and friends matters a lot
A separate study on mothers in Lanao del Sur found that strong family support, friend support, and healthcare provider support were all linked to better quality of life. The study also found that awareness of postpartum depression predicted better quality of life. So knowing about the condition and having people around who care can make a big difference.
What You Can Actually Do With This
Learn the signs and take them seriously
Research found that awareness of postpartum depression is linked to better quality of life. So the first step is knowing what to look for. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a simple questionnaire that doctors use. If you are pregnant or have a new baby, you can ask your doctor about it. Common signs include feeling sad most of the day, losing interest in things you used to enjoy, trouble sleeping even when the baby sleeps, and feeling anxious or overwhelmed. If any of these sound familiar, it is worth talking to a professional.
Talk to your doctor about prenatal care
The study found that adequate prenatal care was linked to lower depressive symptoms. So if you are pregnant, try to go to all your check-ups. Tell your doctor how you are feeling emotionally, not just physically. They can screen you for depression and point you to the right help. If you do not have a regular doctor, you can visit a local health center or barangay health station.
Build a support network early
Research from Lanao del Sur showed that support from family, friends, and healthcare providers improves quality of life. So try to talk to people you trust. Let them know what you are going through. If you are a friend or family member of a new mom, offer specific help — like bringing food, watching the baby for an hour, or just listening without judgment. Sometimes the best support is simply being there.
Seek professional help without shame
If you think you might have perinatal depression, please see a doctor, therapist, or psychiatrist. In the Philippines, you can check with your local government health office, or look for organizations that offer mental health support. The study from FEU is a reminder that this is a common problem, not a personal weakness. Getting help is a sign of strength, not failure. If you are having thoughts of hurting yourself or your baby, please reach out to a crisis hotline or go to the nearest hospital immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression? ▾
How common is postpartum depression in the Philippines? ▾
Can postpartum depression start during pregnancy? ▾
Is it safe to take medication for depression while pregnant or breastfeeding? ▾
Where can I find affordable mental health support in the Philippines? ▾
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Closing
These numbers are big, but they are not a reason to feel hopeless. They are a reason to pay attention. If you are a mother or know one, the research is clear: you are not alone, and help is available. The first step is knowing what to look for and being willing to talk about it. If something feels off, trust that feeling and reach out to a professional. You deserve support, not silence.
If this was useful, you might also want to read personal stories of mental health recovery in the Philippines.
Sources
Why hiding feelings causes more stress — A look at how Filipino culture around emotions can affect mental health.
Mental health services in the Philippines: current status and challenges — An overview of what help is available and what is still missing.
Perinatal depressive symptoms among Filipino women: a cross-sectional survey. BMJ Open, 2025.
Perinatal depressive symptoms in the Philippines: prevalence and risk factors. PubMed, 2025.
Postpartum depression, risk factors, support perception, and quality of life among primipara mothers in Rural Lanao del Sur, Philippines. Journal of Healthcare Administration, 2024.
