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Postpartum depression: women's help-seeking behaviour and perceptions of cause
1Department of Social Policy, University of Glasgow, Scotland.
Journal of Advanced Nursing
|February 1, 1993
Summary
Most first-time mothers experience postnatal depression, often early and long-lasting. However, many do not seek help due to their perceptions of the causes and reluctance to admit emotional difficulties.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal mental health
- Psychiatry
- Women's health
Background:
- Postnatal depression research often focuses on causes, neglecting women's experiences.
- Few studies explore how perceptions of depression influence help-seeking behaviors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the perceptions and experiences of depression among first-time mothers.
- To understand the implications of these experiences for help-seeking and professional intervention.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 60 first-time mothers.
- Depression defined as depressed mood for at least 2 weeks within 9 months postpartum.
Main Results:
- 63% of mothers reported depression, characterized by early onset and long duration.
- Most depressed mothers did not seek help; only 25% consulted a health professional.
- Low consultation rates linked to perceived causes, desired solutions, and reluctance to disclose emotional distress.
Conclusions:
- Mothers' perceptions significantly impact their engagement with health services for postnatal depression.
- Intervention strategies must address these perceptions to improve help-seeking rates.
- Further research needed on tailored support for mothers experiencing postpartum mood disorders.