Personal Motivation Regarding the Topic Choice
The topic of postpartum depression was chosen because it is an underappreciated topic in many communities. A woman’s mental disorder after having a baby is often seen as a manifestation of laziness and irresponsibility. Consequently, many mothers find themselves without proper support from their loved ones.
Professional Organizations Supporting the Topic
In recent years, however, public awareness of the problem has increased. For example, the Cleveland Clinic website provides detailed information on what condition a woman should seek help from a psychotherapist and how to identify specific symptoms, specifically after a work disorder (Cleveland Clinic, 2018). In terms of legislation, there are currently no specific regulations governing women suffering from postpartum depression.
Government Regulation and Women’s Bodily Autonomy
From professional experience, I know that many countries allow the family to choose the person who will take maternity leave. Often, the father takes care of the child, allowing the wife to establish a familiar lifestyle. Necessary measures should include providing free qualified support for patients throughout the treatment period, as free therapy is now provided only for a limited period of time.
Women’s Right to Choose and the Professional Role
As part of postpartum depression, a woman faces a choice of several scenarios, which include accepting the new responsibilities and continuing to care for the child, partial or complete delegation of these tasks to immediate family members, as well as giving up custody of the child. The latter is the most controversial step and is perceived by society with high condemnation (Postpartum Depression, 2019). American Adoptions Foundation provides step-by-step instructions for women who are or have been depressed after childbirth and still wish to transfer their child to other parents (American Adoptions, n.d.). In this case, the partner’s opinion should be considered but not as a guide for further behavior. The woman must be able to make this difficult decision on her own.
Application of Nursing Roles to the Topic
As a nurse, my role in this matter will be limited to an educational function because I need to provide information about human rights and social organizations that can help women.
Relevant Screening and Assessment Tools
The Postpartum Depression Test is a quick and effective way to diagnose this disorder. It allows one to find out one’s score online in a matter of minutes (Postpartum Depression Test, n.d.). The test format involves 10 single-choice questions, working with demographic information, and directly interpreting the results.
References
American Adoptions. (n.d.). Web.
Cleveland Clinic. (2018). Postpartum depression: Types, symptoms, treatment & prevention. Web.
Postpartum Depression Test. (n.d.). MHA Screening. Web.
Postpartum Depression. (2019). Web.