[Postpartum depression]

Postpartum psychological health is an important issue in postpartum care. This article introduces postpartum depression and describes its assessment, treatment, and nursing care. Postpartum depression is a non-psychotic depression that often commences 4 to 6 weeks after childbirth. Postpartum depression requires the diagnosis of at least 5 depressive symptoms that last for a period of at least 2 weeks. Postpartum depression may occur within the first-year postpartum and, if not treated in a timely and appropriate manner, may adversely affect the health of the new mother, the child, and the family. Health professionals in regular contact with women during the perinatal period are encouraged to screen at-risk patients for postpartum depression and to assist postpartum-depressed patients adhere to prescribed treatment regimens to promote the health of the new family.