Association between maternal depression and smartphone use: a 1.5-year follow-up cohort study of Japanese mothers

Maternal depression affects 17.7% of postpartum women and can emerge years after childbirth, impacting both mothers and their children. Social support plays an important role in preventing maternal depression. Family and community were traditional sources of social support, but the rise of digital media may impact social support and therefore maternal well-being. Mothers are accustomed to technology and often use digital devices for childcare and leisure activities. This study examined the association between screen time and the onset of depression two years postpartum. A cohort study was initiated in November 2020 (baseline) with follow-up in May-June 2022, employing an anonymous online questionnaire. Study participants were first-time mothers (n = 204) of children aged 5-8 months. Measures considered basic attributes, family environment, maternal depression (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale [EPDS]), screen time, and sleep status. No baseline maternal depression (EPDS score < 9) was a requirement for participation. Maternal depression onset during a 1.5-year follow-up was the dependent variable. Screen time, sleep duration, and support services were independent variables. Their relationships were analyzed using Fisher's exact test, the Mantel-Haenszel test, and logistic regression. Twenty-six participants (12.7%) developed depression (EPDS ≥ 9) within two years of childbirth. Logistic regression revealed a significant association between smartphone use time and maternal depression (odds ratio [OR] = 1.89; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09-3.26). No association was found between social media or game use and maternal depression. Excessive smartphone use was related to depression two years after childbirth, indicating the need for health guidance on screen time for mothers.