Developing a Psychological Model of Recovery from Postpartum Psychosis

Postpartum psychosis (PP) is a severe but treatable form of mental illness that can happen to women after having a baby. PP affects approximately 2 mothers per 1000 deliveries and occurs very rapidly in the days or weeks following birth. Research suggests that whilst the most severe symptoms of PP can remit within 2 to 12 weeks, functional recovery may take longer, with 30% of women reporting difficulties with psychosocial functioning 12 years post-episode. Mothers may experience depression, anxiety and reduced confidence. Current treatment for PP is mainly pharmacological and often involves an inpatient admission in a specialist mother and baby unit. However, there is a need for further development of psychological interventions to support longer-term recovery. This innovative and exciting project aims to use mixed methods to further understand the process of recovery following an episode of PP from a range of different perspectives. This will help to inform the development a psychological model of PP and tailored interventions.