Abstract

Postpartum depression is a common yet underdiagnosed mental health issue that affects moms, babies, and families. In low- and middle-income countries, family members are crucial in identifying symptoms and facilitating care. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and sociocultural factors influencing misconceptions about postpartum depression among family members in Sagamu Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria. Data were collected among 392 adult family members of postpartum women using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire and analysed using Chi-square tests and a logistic regression model. Most of the respondents (77.6%) demonstrated high knowledge of postpartum depression; however, 29.1% exhibited high levels of misconception. These findings indicate that knowledge and misconceptions co-existed, suggesting that although many respondents were aware of postpartum depression, a considerable proportion still held incorrect or culturally influenced beliefs about the condition. Chi-square analysis showed significant associations between misconceptions and educational level, monthly income, and cultural beliefs (p < 0.05). Also, there was a statistically significant association between cultural beliefs and societal norms and perception of postpartum depression (χ² = 5.632, df = 1, p = 0.001). Despite high general knowledge of postpartum depression, misconceptions and culturally rooted beliefs remain widespread among family members and significantly shape perceptions of the condition. These findings highlight the need for family-centred mental health interventions to promote support for postpartum women.

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