Prevention of Depression in Postpartum Adolescents

Postpartum depression is a national health priority. It affects nearly half ofall adolescent mothers. Postpartum depression can lead to developmental and psychological disabilities in both mother and child. This article reviews three previously completed studies to gather information about various risk factors for the development ofpostpartum depression. The article also proposes solutions to prevent depression that can be put into action by nurses across the United States. Risk factors identified from the studies include ethnicity, socioeconomic background, adolescent self-esteem and adolescent's feeling of competency in child care. In order to prevent postpartum depression, nurses must screen for risk factors and provide continuing education and about child care, self image, and available support and social services.