ENHANCING POSTPARTUM MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT THROUGH FAMILY MEDICINE INTERVENTIONS

Ruaa Ghanim Khaleel*, Suha Salim Issa Al-Dulaimi and Hanan Husam Hashim

ABSTRACT

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant mental health concern affecting maternal well-being and child development. Despite its widespread prevalence, many cases remain undiagnosed and untreated. Primary care physicians (PCPs), including family practitioners and pediatricians, play a crucial role in identifying and managing PPD. However, their attitudes and practices regarding screening and intervention remain inconsistent. This study examines PCPs’ perspectives on PPD recognition, screening, and management, with a focus on enhancing postpartum mental health support through family medicine interventions. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 525 primary care physicians, including 280 pediatricians and 245 family practitioners. The questionnaire assessed their attitudes toward PPD recognition, preferred management approaches, and willingness to implement standardized screening tools. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests, with statistical significance set at P < .05. Results: Most participants (98.0%) acknowledged the importance of recognizing PPD, though only a minority of family practitioners (2.9%) expressed willingness to treat affected mothers directly. The majority (89.8%) preferred referring patients to mental health specialists rather than initiating treatment. A significant disparity was found in screening practices, with 91.2% of family practitioners expressing willingness to use a screening questionnaire compared to 64.6% of pediatricians (P < .0001). Key barriers to screening included time constraints, lack of formal training, and uncertainty regarding referral pathways. Conclusion: While PCPs recognize the importance of PPD identification, significant gaps remain in their screening and management practices. Family practitioners are more inclined to engage in screening and intervention compared to pediatricians. Strengthening medical education, implementing standardized screening protocols, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration can improve early detection and support for postpartum women. Integrating mental health care into routine family medicine practice is essential for addressing PPD and enhancing maternal and child health outcomes.

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