University of Sussex
Browse
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

Download (90.57 kB)
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 21:38 authored by Rose Coates, Richard De VisserRichard De Visser, Susan Ayers
Introduction: 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 & Gynecology

ISSN

0167-482X

Publisher

Informa Healthcare

Issue

3

Volume

36

Page range

114-121

Department affiliated with

  • Psychology Publications

Full text available

  • Yes

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2015-07-14

First Open Access (FOA) Date

2016-07-01

First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date

2015-07-14

Usage metrics

    University of Sussex (Publications)

    Categories

    No categories selected

    Exports

    RefWorks
    BibTeX
    Ref. manager
    Endnote
    DataCite
    NLM
    DC