Intention to Seek Depression Treatment in Latina Immigrant Mothers

Postpartum depression in Latina immigrant mothers can lead to adverse outcomes in both mothers and babies, yet depression treatment remains suboptimal.

The aims were to determine predictors of intention to seek depression treatment and to determine if intention to seek depression treatment differed in those with significant symptoms of depression.

Based upon the theory of planned behavior (TPB), a cross-sectional study design was used. A convenience sample of Latina immigrant mothers (n = 50) were interviewed in Spanish. Certified translation services were used to translate study instruments to Spanish. Descriptive analysis and multivariable logistic regression techniques were used for data analysis.

While increases in attitudes were associated with intention to seek depression treatment, increased social support and perceived control were associated with a decrease in intention to seek treatment.

The differing role of social support in Latina immigrant mothers should be explored.