Post Partum Depression and Social Support. An Exploration of Experiences of New Mothers with Postpartum Depression in Tirana

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to make an exploration of the experiences of new mothers with postpartum
depression symptoms. This study focuses on the perceptions of new mothers of the relationship they have with themselves, the
newborn, and their close family members. The study evaluates the importance of social support in development of postpartum
depression and facing stressful psychosocial factors. The study was conducted in Tirana and the target group was made of new
mothers, six weeks to one year after birth. The Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS) was used to asses post partum
depression. Significant Others Scale (SOS) was used to asses social support. In depth interviews are used to obtain information
on the experiences of women with PPD.Results of the study showed lack of information related to PPD. Interviews provided a lot
of information related to the situation of new mothers with PPD and the factors that may have affected their condition. Such are:
child health, financial problems, problems with the spouse, and lack of social support. Social support as one of the main
variables in the study presented was an important factor in the development of PPD. The study showed a connection between
lack of social support and PPD.This study revealed skepticism of new mothers with PPD symptoms to seek specialist help and
to talk about their problems with people outside of the family.The study confirmed the fact that post partum depression is
currently a problem for new mothers.