Perception of Jordanian Community towards Associated Risk Factors with Post-Partum Depression: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a major public health concern on a global scale. It is one of the most frequent postpartum problems, but it frequently remains undiagnosed and untreated. It can have detrimental repercussions on the mother, the child, and the family. Aim: To explore the perceptions and knowledge towards postpartum depression risk factors in the Jordanian community in order to assess knowledge gaps on several elements of post-partum depression (PDD), and measure the association between several demographic characteristics and public understanding of and stigma around PDD. Methods: This was a cross section survey conducted between the 26th of January 2024 and 5th of March 2024, utilizing face-to-face and online questionnaires. Our questionnaire consisted of 37 questions which included demographic factors in addition to attitudes toward certain medical and cultural and psychological risk factors and predisposing factors. Inclusion criteria were both married and single Jordanian individuals with a total of 867 participants who agreed to participate in this study; exclusion criteria were individuals below 18 years of age. Results: A study of 867 participants, mostly women, assessed their awareness of postpartum depression (PPD) based on their marital status. The majority (73%) were married, and they were more likely to say "I don't know" when asked about PPD. Never-married participants reported being single, young, and uneducated mothers, which increased their chances of developing PPD. They identified psychiatric illnesses, undesired pregnancies, hereditary factors, and financial difficulties as risk factors. Never-married individuals exhibited more negative perceptions of sociodemographic characteristics that influence PPD risk, such as work level, polygamy, housing, and living with in-laws. However, married participants rated social support and postpartum variables higher than single ones, with 60% believing that PPD is more likely without family support. They also believed postpartum complications, sleep quality, and breastfeeding were related to PDD. Conclusions: The study emphasizes the need for educational screening campaigns to raise awareness about postpartum depression, improve mental health literacy, and address stigmas. It suggests targeting support systems like partners, parents, and in-laws, and promoting social support for undiagnosed mothers with PDD. Regular prenatal care visits should also include depression screening for married individuals since they displayed lack of knowledge.