POSTNATAL DEPRESSION AMONG YOUNG ADULT MOTHERS IN MILTON KEYNES ASSIGNMENT

COURSE: EXPLORING HEALTH AND PRIMARY CARE SERVICES IN THE COMMUNITY, NURO19-1

FIELD OF NURSING: MENTAL HEALTH

TOPIC: POSTNATAL DEPRESSION AMONG YOUNG ADULT MOTHERS IN MILTON KEYNES

TABLET OF CONTENT

Introduction3

Background.3

Literature Review4

Discussion......7

Conclusion.8

Reference..9

INTRODUCTION

This study is primarily about postnatal depression among young adult mothers in Milton Keynes and the care system available. Milton Keynes is now a city since August 2022. Young adult women generally classified as those between the ages of 18 and 25 was chosen as the population group.

Postnatal depression is a mental health condition that affects people after giving birth. It is typified by intense depression, anxiety, and tired feelings that can make it difficult for a new parent to take care of their baby (Mayo Clinic, 2022). Young adult women can be more susceptible to postnatal depression due to the difficulties they encounter during this moment of life transition (Swift et al., 2020). Sometimes parents with postnatal depression may experience symptoms such as thoughts of harming themselves and or the baby (NHS, 2022).

Postnatal depression could be considered as a public health issue because it is known to have impacts on both the partner and the baby in addition to the mother. Severe postnatal depression can also result in infanticide and maternal mortality, most frequently by suicide (Shrivastava et al., 2015).

The UK Prime Minister announced in January 2016 a 290 million investment in new specialist perinatal mental health services to ensure that all women in the UK may access psychiatric inpatient mother-baby units and specialised community services (Dr Mary Harding, 2015).

BACKGROUND

According to NICE (2023), approximately 15-20% of women experience depression and anxiety during the first year after giving birth. Globally, 13% of new mothers suffer a mental health illness, most commonly depression. This is far more prevalent in developing countries, at 19.8% following childbirth (World Health Organization, 2019). While local statistics for young adults in Milton Keynes is not readily available, this national prevalence are generally representative of broader population trends, including young adult mothers.

In primary care, General Practitioners (GP), midwives and health visitors are primarily responsible for managing postnatal depression who also can make the necessary referrals to secondary care services.

The Milton Keynes Council in their Joint Strategic Needs Assessment provides a set of evidence-based practise by the local maternity services to co-produced personalised maternity journey document to ensure that treatments are specific to young adults. This is an important step in tackling postnatal depression (Milton Keynes Council, 2021b). The Milton Keynes Perinatal Mental Health Service provides care and assistance to young adults women with post-natal depression. Services can be rendered in the community, at your house, or at Eaglestone Health Centre (cnwl.nhs.uk, 2024). Milton Keynes Youth Counselling Service provides free, private, and confidential counselling to young adults who reside, attend school, or work in Milton Keynes. Acacia Family Support pre and postnatal depression support services BLMK (Bedford, Luton and Milton Keynes) offer consolation and assistance for young adult with postnatal depression (Acacia Family Support, 2024).

LITERATURE REVIEW

Accessibility of Mental Health Services

Access to mental health care is a major challenge for young people with postnatal depression. According to studies, embarrassment, a lack of information, and logistical challenges are common barriers for young adult with postnatal depression. For example, a lack of transport, childcare, or flexible service hours may make it difficult to access services. The stigma surrounding mental health issues might also hinder young mothers from getting help, as they are afraid of societal judgement or discriminated against (Corrigan et al., 2014). Hughes et.al, 2017 argued that a young-friendly approach to service delivery should be one of the driving concepts for young people mental health services. Conversely, youth-friendly services may positively affect treatment commitment and service utilisation. In 2012, the World Health Organization (WHO) acknowledged the necessity of a framework for youth healthcare and declared that treatments tailored to the needs of young people should be easily accessible, acceptable, fair, suitable, and efficient.

Types of Mental Health Services Available

Mental health services offered to young adult mothers with postnatal depression include support groups, medication, and psychotherapy. Research indicates that postnatal depression can be effectively treated with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) (Sockol, 2018). In addition, the importance of online and telehealth services is growing, particularly for younger populations that are more inclined to use digital platforms (O'Mahen et al., 2013). Telehealth can considerably enhance access to mental health services for new mothers who are unable to attend in-person sessions due to childcare commitments, transportation challenges, or living in rural locations. Virtual appointments provide flexibility, allowing new mothers to get care without leaving their homes, which is especially useful in the early postnatal period when mobility may be limited. Some young adult mothers may feel more comfortable getting help in the quiet of their own homes, lowering the stigma associated with mental health therapy. Telehealth can make it easier to schedule regular follow-ups and receive ongoing care, both of which are essential for properly managing postnatal depression (Zhao et al., 2021).

Effectiveness of Current Services

The approach to service delivery, understanding of culture, and the incorporation of social support are among the elements that impact the efficacy of mental health care for young adults diagnosed with postnatal depression (Westgate, Manchanda and Maxwell, 2023). Studies indicate that tailored and culturally aware interventions are typically more successful. Furthermore, studies on the effects of programs that combine family participation and peer support on mental health outcomes have been positive (Letourneau et al., 2017).

Service Provision's Gaps and Challenges

There are still large gaps in the services available to support young adults with postnatal depression. According to Byatt et al. (2012), these gaps include insufficient funding for mental health programs, a lack of specialized services, and poor training for healthcare personnel. Furthermore, a barrier to efficient service delivery is the absence of integrated care models that address the requirements of both physical and mental health (Stewart and Vigod, 2019). However, according to the (Milton Keynes Council, 2021a), significant government funding for regional perinatal mental health services has aided in identifying gaps in the current system of care locally and facilitated the creation of integrated care pathways. This has led to better access to psychiatric therapy, an increase in specialised mental health care from 12 to 24 months, and mental health examinations for partners.

Discussion

The above-mentioned literatures indicate that there is comprehensive array of services to support young adults experiencing postnatal depression, but there are still gaps that need addressing. Furthermore, the literature recommends that to improve mental health services for young adults with postnatal depression, there should be increase in awareness and education on the topic. Corrigan, Druss and Perlick, (2014), suggest the emphasis on public awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and educate young mothers about postnatal depression and available resources. Additionally, mental health services could be more accessible by developing more flexible and accessible service options, such as mobile clinics, home visits, and extended service hours. Services could integrate technological platforms to provide remote counselling and support services, making it easier for young mothers to access care (Davis et al.,2022).

Roles of Mental Health Nurse in Health Promotion and Prevention.

Nurses are crucial in the early detection and timely treatment of postnatal depression. They offer young adult with postnatal depression the best means of accelerating their recovery and returning to a happy household. They can offer emotional support, education, reassurance and referrals to specialised services as needed. They are frequently the first medical experts to interact with parents during the postnatal period (Lewis, 2020).

Young adults can talk about their feelings in a safe environment created by nurses, who also listen with empathy and support patients experiences. (Haga et al., 2012). Nurses help to detect postnatal depression symptoms early through performing screenings on a regular basis using instruments such as the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). Nurses educate by giving knowledge about postnatal depression, its signs and symptoms, available treatments, and the value of getting assistance. To understand and support the young adult with mental health issues, nurses must provide education to families (Glavin and Leahy-Warren, 2013). Also, nurses collaborate with a multidisciplinary team comprising consultants, midwives, social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists to develop a holistic care plan that meets the physical and mental health needs young adults. Nurses make referrals and follow-ups (Slade et al., 2010).

Conclusion

Addressing the mental health needs of young adults with postnatal depression requires a multifaceted approach

Postnatal depression among young adults in Milton Keynes is a significant concern that requires a multifaceted approach that considers accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and integrated care. By introducing focused interventions and enhancing service delivery, these can help young mothers manage postnatal depression and improve their overall well-being. Also, understanding the prevalence, risk factors, symptoms, and available services, healthcare providers and policymakers can better support young parents. Continued research and the development of targeted interventions are essential to improve outcomes for this vulnerable population. There should be comprehensive training to ensure healthcare providers receive specialized training in recognizing and treating postnatal depression with a focus on the unique needs of young adults. Also, there is the need to integrate care models that address both the mental and physical health needs of young mothers, fostering a holistic approach to treatment. NHS (2019) indicates the role of mental health nurse is to assist and encourage patients recovery so they can have independent and quality lives. Furthermore, the nurse has the responsibility of establishing therapeutic relationship with individuals who seek mental health services, as well as with their families and caretakers (Shidende et al., 2024).