NEW: PMH launches bereavement support for grieving parents

Parirenyatwa Maternity Hospital has brought much-needed support to bereaved parents during one of the most heart-wrenching experiences of their lives.

Speaking during the handover ceremony of the Bereavement Suit and Transition Ward at Mbuya Nehanda Parirenyatwa Hospital on Wednesday, Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals acting clinical director Mr Macmilan Dzowa, said the project had not only provided a space of dignity for grieving parents, but has also opened a new chapter of recognising and addressing the mental health needs of mothers.

“The World Health Organisation(WHO) reports that maternal mental health is often overlooked, despite the fact that 10-20% of women experience mental health conditions during pregnancy or within the first year after child birth.

“In Zimbabwe the need for comprehensive maternal mental health services have never been more critical,” he said.

Mr Dzowa highlighted that statistics from Zimbabwe reveal that 1 in 4 women in the region may experience mental health issues related to pregnancy and childbirth, yet mental health services remain woefully underdeveloped.

Mr Dzowa added that the doors of Bereavement Suit and Transition Ward, should be a symbol of commitment to not only improving physical health but also ensuring mental health support is integrated into the very fabric of maternal care in the country.

Zimbabwe German Society (ZGS) Director, Taremeredzwa Chirewa, said that the bereavement room is specifically designed to support women navigating their personal challenges.

“This year’s project focused on visual art aimed at empowering women who have experienced sexual assault and the power of art in addressing women’s issues,” he said.