Postpartum Depression In Nursing

867 Words2 Pages

Postpartum depression is a mental health issue that affects women in the days, weeks, and months after giving birth to a baby. (Yawn, Bertram, Kurland, & Wollan, 2015, p. 228) Symptoms of postpartum depression can occur up to a year after delivery. Lavoie (2015) explained that postpartum depression is such a high priority concern because of the lifetime influence it can have on the mother; as well as the newborn’s quality of life and the potential for life threatening events if it remains undiagnosed. (p. 56) When a woman is undiagnosed and suffering from postpartum depression not only is she affected, but her family members and the baby can be negatively affected as well. The symptoms of postpartum depression are often labeled as being normal
(Watson, 2008, Chapter 7) Ideally, a helping-trust relationship with a client should be consistent, empathetic, and sincere. Watson (2008) states that these findings continue to remind nursing professionals that the effects of caring and building a helping-trusting relationship have a critical effect on outcomes for patients and nurses alike. (Chapter 7) Women suffering the symptoms of postpartum depression desire steps to resolution, however there is a general understanding that these women feel as though they are battling the system. According to Marsh (2013), this is due to the lack of assistance they receive from family, friends, and their primary care providers. (p. 51) This tends to leave them with feelings of disappointment, humiliation, anger, and frustration. Using empathy while interacting with women suffering from postpartum depression can help to foster a therapeutic relationship and more open expression of
(Watson, 2008, Chapter 9) Watson (2008) explains that this allows the nurse to be present and maintain that presence and provide the support the client needs. (Chapter 9) In the case of the postpartum mother, it is important that the nurse allows the client to approach them and keep lines of communication open. (Lavoie, 2015, p. 60) This requires the use of effective communication skills, to be accommodating and aware of other's feelings and consciously becoming involved with the patient and their family’s lives and issues. A major transition into motherhood requires that the mother adapt to physical, social, and emotional changes; women who experience postpartum depression may feel they have lost a sense control of body and self. (Marsh, 2013, p. 51) Lavoie (2015) encourages nurses to validate the emotions and experiences of the postpartum mother and encourage them to explore their

Open Document