Journal of Rural Mental Health, Vol 49(2), Apr 2025, 89-100; doi:10.1037/rmh0000290
The aims of this integrative review were to (a) synthesize measures of postpartum depression (PPD) prevalence in U.S. rural settings, (b) evaluate PPD screening methods used in U.S. rural settings, (c) examine barriers to mental health care for rural women with PPD, and (d) examine interventions for PPD utilized in rural settings. Peer-reviewed primary studies on PPD in rural U.S. settings were eligible for inclusion. Systematic assessment yielded 28 eligible studies which underwent data evaluation, quality appraisal, data analysis, and data synthesis. Findings revealed an elevated PPD prevalence among rural women compared to the U.S. average. No existing PPD screening tools were validated for clinical use in rural U.S. settings. Barriers to accessing mental health care included distrust in the health care system, social stigma, transportation challenges, and limited internet/cell service. Interventions addressing PPD in rural settings were mainly associated with feasibility research. Rural American women face high risk of PPD and experience significant barriers in accessing mental health care. Validated screening tools and context-specific interventions for PPD are urgently needed in U.S. rural settings. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)