ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: We explored the association between stressful life events and postpartum depressive symptoms among non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) mothers. METHODS: We analyzed self-reports of stressful life events and depressive symptoms from 298 AI/AN respondents and conducted logistic regression to examine their association. RESULTS: Of the AI/AN mothers who responded, 29.7% reported depressive symptoms during their second postpartum year. Partner-related and traumatic stressful life events were significantly associated with increased risk of postpartum depressive symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: AI/AN women should receive intensive screening for depression through the second postpartum year. Programs that address stressful life events may be part of a plan to decrease postpartum depression.
