Migrant mothers’ experiences of postnatal depression in the UK

Background: Despite the majority of migrants coming to the UK for voluntary reasons such as study, work or family, few studies explore their experiences of mental health. Prevalence of postnatal depression (PND) is higher amongst migrant women compared with non-migrant women. This qualitative study aimed to explore voluntary migrant mothers’ experiences of postnatal depression (PND) in the UK. Methodology: Seven migrant mothers who had experienced PND participated in individual semi-structured interviews. These were analysed using an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach which enabled an in-depth exploration of underlying meanings and significance of participant experiences. Findings: Four Group Experiential Themes were identified along with associated subthemes. These captured the layers of disconnect, isolation, despair and grief participants reflected on when sharing their experiences of PND. The stories shared were embedded in participants’ intersecting identities of being both mothers and migrants. The themes also captured testaments of resilience and growth through an ongoing journey of healing. Discussion: This research builds on existing literature looking at migrant women’s experiences of PND, by focussing on voluntary migrant mothers in the UK. The findings suggest that migrant mothers who experience PND would particularly benefit from community support in addition to tailored clinical interventions. Further research and clinical implications are discussed to help improve migrant mothers’ experiences of seeking help for PND in the UK.