Healthcare Professionals' Perceptions of Factors That Could Inform Adherence Interventions for Postnatal Depression Treatments

Interventions for postnatal depression (PND) have been widely researched, but little is known about techniques to improve poor adherence to treatment and sustained outcomes. To explore healthcare professionals' experience, a semi-structured interview comprising of six experienced healthcare practitioners was conducted. The use of adjunct support, combining multiple interventions, and self-management could be used to improve adherence behaviour. When women can notice the effect of treatment, it builds a positive attitude toward treatment adherence. One barrier to seeking treatment was linked to trust and fear. Easy accessibility is an important factor that could facilitate adherence. This study provides a good basis for exploring professionals' perception of techniques that could facilitate adherence to PND prescribed treatments, informed by an empirically validated theory. The findings from this study could inform the requirements of treatment adherence intervention for women with PND.