EFFECTIVENESS OF PEER SUPPORT IN PREVENTING POSTNATAL DEPRESSION

EFFECTIVENESS OF PEER SUPPORT IN PREVENTING POSTNATAL DEPRESSION

ANSWER

The effectiveness of peer support in preventing postnatal depression has been studied in many ways. One study found that peer support provided by a group of mothers was more effective than individual therapy, even though the group was smaller than usual. The study found that mothers who received peer support had significantly fewer depressive symptoms and fewer symptoms overall than those who received individual therapy alone.

Another study found that peer support helped improve outcomes for women who had experienced postpartum depression, especially if they were not receiving medication or other forms of treatment at the time. The study suggests that peer support may be an effective alternative treatment for women who are not seeking treatment from professionals or who have chosen not to receive medication or other types of treatment for postpartum depression.