Loneliness is central to perinatal depression

Loneliness can often contribute to depression in expectant and new mothers, finds a new review of evidence led by UCL researchers. The researchers say people working with expectant mothers, such as in antenatal classes or consultations, should be aware of the importance of loneliness and the value of encouraging new mothers to develop and maintain good social connections. The findings suggest that increased support from family and healthcare professionals can be helpful in reducing the mental health impacts of loneliness. Published in BMC Psychiatry , the meta-synthesis (an evidence review using a systematic method) of qualitative research pulled together accounts from 537 women, from 27 research papers on four continents. Lead author Dr Katherine Adlington (UCL Psychiatry and East London NHS Foundation Trust) said: "We found that loneliness was central to the experiences of expectant and new mothers with depression. We know that depression and loneliness are often interconnected - each one can lead to the other - and this may be particularly true for perinatal depression. "Having a baby is a period of huge transition and upheaval, that can involve losing touch with people and existing networks, such as work colleagues.