The effects of social support on depression and anxiety in the perinatal period: A mixed-methods systematic review.
- Publisher:
- Elsevier
- Publication Type:
- Journal Article
- Citation:
- Journal of Affective Disorders, 2022, 319, pp. 119-141
- Issue Date:
- 2022-09-12
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| 1-s2.0-S016503272201000X-main.pdf | 756.58 kB |
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BACKGROUND: The social support offered to women in the perinatal period can buffer against depression and anxiety. The sources and types of support that reduce maternal levels of depression and anxiety are not well understood. AIMS: To investigate the effects of structural and functional support on depression and anxiety in women in the perinatal period, and to explore the experiences of women around support during the perinatal period. METHOD: A comprehensive search of six electronic databases was undertaken. Relevant studies published from January 2010 to April 2020 were included (PROSPERO reference number: CRD42020194228). Quantitative and qualitative studies were eligible if they reported the effects of, or had themes related to receiving functional or structural support in the perinatal period on women's levels of depression or anxiety. Qualitative data was synthesised using a thematic synthesis method. Quantitative data could not be pooled due to the lack of comparable RCTs or cohort studies and was thus presented in a narrative form. RESULTS: Fifty-one articles (41 quantitative and 10 qualitative studies) were included. Analysis of quantitative studies demonstrated that insufficient support from partner, friends and family was associated with greater risk of symptoms of depression and anxiety. Distance-delivered interventions (via internet or telephone) diminished levels of depression and anxiety. Qualitative data revealed three overarching themes: appreciating all forms of support in the perinatal period, recognising appropriate and inappropriate support from health professionals and services, and having barriers to mobilising functional and structural support. LIMITATIONS: Grey literature was not explored and search strategies only included English, Spanish and Portuguese language articles. The reviewed studies were heterogeneous and for this reason, quantitative assessments were not feasible. CONCLUSION: Support from specific sources such as family members, friends who are also mothers, health professionals, neighbours, supervisors, co-workers and online communities still need to be further investigated. Implications for health professionals involved in the care of women in the perinatal period are discussed.
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