Peer support for mothers with postnatal depression: A pilot study

As the number of mothers suttering from postnatal depression (PND) continues to rise, a pilot study was developed to explore methods of trying to support new mothers diagnosed as 'at risk' of PND. A lack of social interaction and isolation has been highlighted as a potential factor within postnatal depression. Could, therefore, disclosing to a fellow mother--who has previously shared a similar journey--help to assist in the recovery from this debilitating illness? A small number of peer support workers (PSWs) were recruited to offer one-to-one home visits within the postnatal period to a mother considered to be at elevated risk of PND--as diagnosed by the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). The PSWs visited the mother within their own homes from week six postnatally for a period of six weeks. Results were recorded both quantitatively and qualitatively by the recording of the EPDS scores, log book entries and one-to-one interviews. Results suggest that the PSWs may have a positive effect upon the mothers'mental health, outlook and indeed, their relationship with their baby.