Knowledge, early recognition and acceptance : the journey to recovery from postnatal depression : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Nursing at Massey University

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore with women their experience of postnatal depression (PND), with a specific emphasis on what factors assisted and what factors hindered their recovery. Eight women who had suffered at some stage from PND took part in the study. Interviews were carried out using an in-depth interview technique with open-ended questions regarding their subjective experience, which were audio-taped and then transcribed. Using thematic analysis, the information obtained from the interviews was analysed and significant statements extracted. Patterns emerged and were clustered into three major themes: Knowledge, Early recognition and Acceptance. These three themes and the patterns within them were all closely entwined, each influencing the other and having a major effect on the woman's experience of PND and her recovery. Lack of knowledge was identified as a major hindrance to recovery, with women describing feelings of being in the dark, not knowing what was happening to them and feeling like a failure. This lack of knowledge was a barrier to seeking help, causing a delay in recognition and treatment which prolonged the illness and forced these women to suffer in silence. The opposite also applied where prior experience of PND enabled women to recognise the symptoms, seek help, receive treatment and recover more quickly. Postnatal depression is a common complication following childbirth. It can have devastating effects on the mother, the infant, the family and society. Recovery is not possible without knowledge about this condition, not only for the women themselves, but for society as a whole, including health professionals. Women in this study recognised that early recognition played a major role in their recovery, but also identified acceptance as a problem for themselves, health professionals and society, in delaying this process. As a result of this study, gaps within the New Zealand health service were identified, such as a lack of education about PND, parenting of a new baby and support services available in the community. Unrealistic expectations of mothers and the romantic media hype about childbirth and motherhood were also identified as an issue.