Date of Conferral

8-13-2025

Degree

Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)

School

Public Health

Advisor

Michael Schwab

Abstract

Postpartum depression (PPD) is an increasingly pressing public health issue, particularly in low-resource settings like Nigeria, where maternal mental health tends to receive limited attention. This study explored the relationship between maternal awareness of PPD, perceived social support, and prevalence of depressive symptoms among postpartum women in the Nnewi North Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State. Grounded in the social support theory, health belief model, and socioecological model, the study used a descriptive cross-sectional research design. A total of 406 postpartum women attending primary healthcare centers were surveyed using validated instruments, including the PHQ-9 and MSPSS. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests, Fisher’s exact tests, and regression analysis. Results revealed a clinically significant prevalence of PPD among women in Nnewi North LGA at 32%. Women with prior knowledge of PPD exhibited significantly reduced depressive symptoms (p = .003), suggesting that knowledge about PPD empowers mothers to recognize early signs, seek support, and adopt coping strategies to reduce depressive symptoms. Support from significant others was found to be inversely related to PPD (p = .045), whereas support from family and friends did not reveal significant associations. Sociodemographic factors such as age, education, employment, and marital status showed no significant correlations with PPD. These findings underscore the vital importance of mental health education and targeted emotional support in terms of mitigating the risks of PPD. There is a pressing need for heightened awareness, increased involvement from spouses, and enhanced mental health interventions at the primary care level in Nigeria.

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