Article prepared by Valerie Velina Anaelechi
Welcome to the world of being a mom, where your high-fashion wardrobe consists solely of spit-up-stained pyjamas. In Malaysia, new mothers are commonly referred to as “Meroyan” if they appear overwhelmed, despite the expectation that they should be in “baby bliss.”
The term “Meroyan” refers to emotional instability caused by hormonal fluctuations, yet it is often interpreted as “crazy” or “dangerous” by locals. This cultural term is a significant buzzkill because it generates a huge stigma, making mothers scared to speak up and driving them to procrastinate receiving the support they genuinely need.
The Survival Guide: Turning the Tables on Postnatal Blues
If you or someone you know is feeling like the “dark clouds” aren’t moving, don’t worry. Here is a clear guidance on how we may remove this stigma and help Malaysian mothers get back on their feet:
1. Call it what it is, postnatal depression (PND).
First, let’s get rid of the terrifying labels. Everyone, including grandparents and husbands, should be educated on the biopsychosocial paradigm. This means accepting that feeling “blue” isn’t a character fault or a “lack of faith”; it’s a combination of hormonal swings, lack of sleep, and the immense stress of keeping a little human alive.
2. Unleash the Midwives
Midwives and primary care nurses are the true MVPs in Malaysia, as they provide post-hospital care for mothers. We need primary screening professionals who can detect PND early through regular check-ins, rather than merely focusing on physical recovery.
3. Learn about the Malaysian Ministry of Health’s “TIARA-MURNI” initiative.
This is a series of short Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) sessions tailored for moms.
What is the best part?
It is intended to be administered by primary care professionals, making it cost-effective and far more accessible than waiting months for a high-level expert.
4. Embrace the Digital Doctor
Leaving the house with a newborn might feel like preparing for a frigid trip. Telemedicine can help moms in rural locations by reducing the need for in-person visits through video chats and online consultations.
Being a new mother is difficult enough without the dread of being labelled “Meroyan.” To ensure that all Malaysian mothers feel supported and not condemned, we can teach frontline staff, use innovative technologies like TIARA-MURNI, and be transparent about the reality of postnatal mental health. Remember, a happy mom equals a happy household (and a lot calmer nursery)!
5. Learn the “super skills” of motherhood.
The TIARA-MURNI module offers six 30-minute lessons on practical techniques to combat the blues.
Mothers learn: Deep breathing and awareness are effective relaxation strategies, especially for babies who have been wailing for three hours straight.
Brain Hacks: Recognising and challenging “automatic negative thoughts”.
Understanding The TIARA-MURNI Program
The Malaysian Ministry of Health, through the Institute for Public Health, established TIARA-MURNI to address the paucity of accessible mental health resources for new moms. This quick Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) curriculum offers practical help without requiring a high-level professional.
The program is divided into six weekly sessions, each lasting around 30 minutes. The program includes many important skills:
Psychoeducation involves learning about the biopsychosocial model and recognising physical and emotional changes.
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and mindfulness can help manage stress.
Cognitive restructuring involves identifying and challenging “automatic negative thoughts”.
Relationship Management: Learning efficient communication with your partner and discovering new ways to bond with the baby.
Relapse Prevention: Summarising the skills learned to ensure long-term mental stability
How to Get Support
Because TIARA-MURNI is meant to be easily accessible, moms do not need to visit a big hospital or see a psychiatrist to obtain it.
In Malaysia, mothers get postnatal care in public health clinics (primary care) after being discharged from the hospital.
Midwifery Nurses are the primary point of contact for new mothers, generally doing many home visits within the first month following birth. They are well-positioned to conduct PND screenings.
Screening Timelines: According to official standards, women should be evaluated for PND between 6-12 weeks postpartum and at least once within the first year.
If you or someone you know is struggling, schedule a mental health test at your local public health clinic (Klinik Kesihatan) during a normal check-up. The TIARA-MURNI module enables primary care professionals to conduct cost-effective and accessible cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) directly.
