Stronger families, healthier minds: association between family function and postpartum depression

Abstract Background Postpartum depression (PPD) affects 10-37% of women and negatively impacts maternal physical and mental health, the mother-child relationship, and the child's cognitive, emotional, and social development, with repercussions for the entire family. Its study is therefore essential for public health. Objectives To identify the association between family functioning and postpartum depression. Materials and methods An observational, cross-sectional, and prospective study was conducted among mothers from Veracruz, Mexico with children aged 4 weeks to 12 months. Women with disabilities or under psychiatric treatment were excluded. PPD (dependent variable) was assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (α = 0.88), and independent variables included education, occupation, marital status, economic dependency, parity, and family functioning, the latter evaluated with the Family APGAR (α = 0.8). A non-probabilistic sampling method was applied, collecting data through questionnaires distributed in daycare centers and hospitals. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v.27, calculating odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results A total of 473 women participated (mean age 26±7.0 years). The prevalence of PPD was 64%, and 78.2% reported adequate family functioning. Significant associations were found between good family functioning [OR: 0.14; CI: 0.07-0.2], mild dysfunction [OR: 3.74; CI: 1.6-8.5], severe dysfunction [OR: 7.03; CI: 2.1-23.2], and PPD (p < 0.05). Educational level also showed association: secondary education [OR: 1.5; CI: 1-2.2] and high school [OR: 0.60; CI: 0.4-0.8]. No significant associations were observed with occupation, marital status, economic dependency, or parity. Conclusions Maternal family functioning and educational context are associated with postpartum depression. Strengthening family support networks during the perinatal period is recommended. Key messages • Strengthening support networks and family cohesion during the puerperium is essential for mitigating postpartum depression risk in maternal mental health care. • Family functioning, a critical yet underrecognized determinant of postpartum depression, should be prioritized in the design of future public health interventions.