Postscript

Abstract

The findings from the study on which this book is based have increased the understanding and resolution of postnatal depression (PND). Interviewing the partners added depth and dimension to women’s stories, and contributed to the newly emerging field where men are included in studies relating to PND. Women’s drawings were a powerful portrayal of their experiences of PND and resolution. Many studies have explored the lived experience of PND. However, this study is unique as it included women who had resolved PND and also included their partners’ perspectives. This study has identified that support is beneficial to women’s mental health and has provided new insights into the psychosocial factors that affect women’s emotional well-being.

The findings we have presented in this book could be used to inform and develop programs to identify women who are particularly vulnerable to experiencing PND, or to improve the treatment of the illness to assist other families in their recovery. The findings of this study will also enable health professionals to reflect on their existing understanding of PND and to understand the complex needs of women and their partners in pregnancy, childbirth, and in the postpartum period. Families who are contemplating pregnancy, or parents themselves, relate to some of the issues that have been discussed in this book, and will hopefully gain additional support by reading this book.