Postpartum Depression: Implementing an Evidence-Based Social Support Network in North Carolina

Abstract Postpartum Depression: Implementing an Evidence-Based Social Support Network in North Carolina Problem Statement: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant public health concern and effects between 12-25% of postpartum women in the first year following childbirth. Evidence has shown that social support interventions, including peer support, prevent PPD. Purpose: This DNP Project provided an evidence-based program development, implementation, and evaluation of a community social support network for postpartum women in Cleveland County, North Carolina (NC). Methods: Two models from Postpartum Support International (PSI) were replicated to develop a support network inclusive of an anonymous weekly telephone-based peer support group. A Community Advisory Group and an educational offering for health professionals were also developed to increase knowledge of PPD within the community. Findings: The anonymous telephone-based peer support group met weekly for eight weeks and a total of seven women participated in the group with statements collected. All seven found the group helpful. The educational presentation had a total of 26 participants, and positive statements regarding the presentation were noted in the evaluations. Findings were found to be similar to research literature for women in the postpartum period. Conclusion: Implementing a sustainable social support network for postpartum women increased the needed support for women who were struggling with the emotional needs of the postpartum period, educated the community regarding the importance of peer support, and increased the collaboration among healthcare professionals interested in maternal mental health