As nurses, effective interventions for new mothers, both non pharmacological and pharmacological, are essential to improving these patients’ outcomes and minimizing their risk for postpartum depression (PPD). New mothers undergo an immense amount of stress, both physically and mentally. As a result of this, many hospitals have standard postpartum care to minimize the risk of postpartum depression. Despite this, many mothers find themselves at a higher risk for PPD and managing these symptoms. Prescription medications are typically used in treating some symptoms of PPD but many patients may seek other forms of therapies. It is essential that alternative methods in managing and minimizing the long-term effects of postpartum depression in order to improve both the mother and child outcomes. Psychosocial support and a healthy diet have shown significance in managing the symptoms of PPD.
This thesis contains a review of recent research literature examining the long-term effects of PPD along with potential interventions to minimize these effects, and is followed by a proposal for further study on this important topic
