Assessment of Depression and Anxiety Levels among Postpartum Women in Najran City

Background: The postpartum period represents a critical and delicate phase in most pregnancies. Postpartum mental health refers to the mental and emotional well-being of mothers after giving birth. This study aimed to assess depression and anxiety levels among postpartum women in Najran city. Methods: The study employed an observational design conducted from 1st May to 30th September 2022 in primary healthcare facilities in Najran, Saudi Arabia. A sample of 241 postpartum women participated in the study. Socio-demographic characteristics, obstetric history, and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) were used to collect the data. Results: The study findings revealed that 35.7% of the subjects exhibited a moderate level of depression, whereas about 50% had severe to extremely severe levels of depression. Furthermore, 30.7% of the participants displayed a moderate level of anxiety, while 19.5% exhibited a mild level of anxiety. Regarding stress levels, 31.1% of the subjects experienced a moderate stress level, whereas 18.7% reported an extremely severe level of stress. Conclusion: The findings indicate that almost half of the participants (nearly 50%) had severe to extremely severe depression, anxiety, and stress. These results underscore the importance of prioritizing mental health care for postpartum women and implementing effective strategies to address depression, anxiety, and stress, thereby ensuring their overall well-being and that of their families.