Coates_etal_inPress_NotIdentifying.pdf (90.57 kB)
Not identifying with postnatal depression: a qualitative study of women’s postnatal symptoms of distress and need for support
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 21:38 authored by Rose Coates, Richard De VisserRichard De Visser, Susan AyersIntroduction: Diagnoses and symptoms of postnatal mental health problems are associated with adverse outcomes for women and their families. Current classification and assessment of postnatal mental health problems may not adequately address the range or combination of emotional distress experienced by mothers. This study aims to explore symptoms of mental health problems reported by new mothers and their experiences of being assessed for these. Methods: In-depth interviews with 17 women in southeast England with a baby under 1-year old who experienced a postnatal mental health problem. Data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Women described a lack of identification with the concept of postnatal depression and felt that other forms of emotional distress were not recognized by the healthcare system. Women felt that support seeking for postnatal mental health problems needed to be normalized and that support should be available whether or not women were diagnosed. Assessment needs to be well timed and caringly implemented. Discussion: Identification and recognition of symptoms and disorders other than postnatal depression need to be improved. Awareness of multiple types of distress needs to be raised both for women experiencing such distress, and for healthcare professionals, to enable them to support women at this time. Different approaches to assessment that include the range of symptoms reported should be piloted.
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Accepted version
Journal
Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics & GynecologyISSN
0167-482XPublisher
Informa HealthcareExternal DOI
Issue
3Volume
36Page range
114-121Department affiliated with
- Psychology Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2015-07-14First Open Access (FOA) Date
2016-07-01First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2015-07-14Usage metrics
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