Renowned actress Sarwat Gilani has shared her personal battle with severe postpartum depression after the birth of her daughter last year.
In a candid interview on a morning show, Sarwat Gilani revealed that following her C-section, she was unable to hold her newborn for four days. When she finally did, she struggled with breastfeeding, which triggered intense feelings of worthlessness and despair.
She admitted experiencing disturbing thoughts about harming her baby, saying she sometimes felt she should “just drop her” to end her stress.
Her husband, actor and plastic surgeon Fahad Mirza, recognised these feelings as postpartum blues rather than lasting intentions. He encouraged Sarwat Gilani to seek professional help, providing essential support during this difficult time.
Gilani emphasised the importance of raising awareness about postpartum depression, explaining that these intrusive thoughts are “not you, it’s just a mental state you’re going through.” She highlighted that postpartum depression is far more serious than the commonly used term “baby blues” and affects many new mothers globally.
She urged mothers to monitor themselves for warning signs such as persistent irritability, detachment from their child, anger, or self-harm ideas. She stressed that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
During the first four months after her daughter’s birth, Sarwat Gilani described herself as being in a “very dark place,” struggling to bond with her baby and even experiencing suicidal thoughts.
By speaking openly, Gilani hopes to reduce the stigma surrounding postpartum depression in Pakistan and reassure mothers that they are not alone. Her story serves as a reminder that professional support and awareness are crucial for the mental well-being of new mothers.
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Sarwat Gilani’s courageous disclosure is inspiring others to acknowledge postpartum challenges and seek help without shame.
