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Description
Childbirth is considered one of the most pivotal events in a woman’s life, bringing along profound changes. While often seen as joyful, the experience can be extremely challenging or stressful. This might trigger a wide range of emotions that can hinder a mother’s ability to care for herself as well as her newborn. Unlike temporary “baby blues,” postpartum depression (PPD) is similar to major depressive disorder, with symptoms like guilt, anxiety, hopelessness, and even suicidal thoughts. Though typically diagnosed within 4-6 weeks after birth, it often goes untreated or underdiagnosed due to inadequate screening. Untreated PPD can pose a risk for mother-infant bonding and adversely affect a child’s cognitive and emotional development, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment. This thesis highlights the importance of early detection and early interventions for PPD.
Department
Nursing
Publication Date
2024
Sponsorship/Conference/Institution
Dominican University of California
City
San Rafael, CA
Keywords
Postpartum depression, infant development, effects, mental health, depression symptoms, interventions.
Disciplines
Counseling | Nursing | Psychology | Sociology