Postpartum Mental Health

Abstract

The objective of this presentation is to discuss physical and social factors that affect postpartum mental health. An additional focus of this presentation is to discuss the considerations of occupational therapy, as well as present potential treatments that could benefit the mental health of postpartum mothers. Occupational therapy practitioners are trained in addressing occupational performance challenges that arise in early motherhood, including self-care needs, parenting roles/family dynamics, establishing routines, and developing coping strategies. The field of occupational therapy is currently underutilized in postpartum health. The findings of this research project advocate for addressing postpartum mental health and the value occupational therapy services could pose to postpartum mothers.