Seeking and Finding Reliable Information

Women described the many and varied sources of information available to them. They noted that information obtained from online sources and social media can be a double-edged sword, bringing both positive and negative information and experiences. They talked about other ways of learning about mental health and several emphasized the importance of getting information from healthcare professionals.

 

Wide Ranging Sources of Information

Tara shared her experience of having to seek out information about mental health issues on her own, rather than being informed by a healthcare professional. “Now I know I have the information but that’s because I lived through it. And I’ve had to seek it out.” Women sought and found various sources of information on maternal mental health including online information, social media (Instagram, Facebook groups), special forums, books, magazines, and free research-based podcasts using different search engines. They found information via television shows and news media, national and international online support groups, and in-person courses about maternal mental health.

 

Positive Experiences with Social Media

Through social media, some women found valuable information about mental health in general, as well as support from people going through the same issues, and a better understanding of their own condition. For some, it helped provide a sort of check-in on how they were doing. Women found trustworthy organizations on social media such as the Postpartum Support International (PSI), Canadian Perinatal Mental Health Collaborative (CPMHC) – N.B no longer in operation –  and Naître et Grandir, with credible information on maternal mental health. See also our resources section on this site. Additionally, some doctors and therapists recommended several online sources that shared reliable information. One participant described how using Instagram helped her to find information and gain a better understanding of postpartum psychosis. In addition, through Instagram, she connected with a supportive friend across the globe, which made her feel less isolated in her experience with mental health challenges. Some participants also found comfort in support groups and hearing about the experiences of others, realizing they were not alone in their struggles. Another participant discussed creating a Facebook support group for maternal mental health awareness. She highlighted the importance of providing support and reducing judgment for others; according to her, this is the only way forward.

 

The Internet as a Double-Edged Sword

Many participants looked to the internet and online sources for information about maternal mental health. Some, as per the examples above, found it helpful, such as discovering support groups, information about their condition, online courses, and easy-to-access information. In contrast, others had more negative experiences finding that, for instance, reading about complex stories or extreme cases was triggering or harmful in some way when comparing themselves with these situations and becoming afraid that the same could happened to them. One participant found that online support groups brought blame instead of comfort, and others explained that the amount of information made them feel lost and overwhelmed. Although online information was easy to find, selecting what was trustworthy or not was challenging.

Participants found that using Google, for instance, for general searches online could make finding information easy, however it also resulted in an enormous amount of information, which could be confusing, and it was difficult to know what information was reliable and what was not. Amanda2 explained that she viewed the internet as a ‘double-edged sword’. When she was anxious and experiencing obsessive and intrusive thoughts, her constant searching for information online was harmful. However, when she began to feel better, the internet became a helpful tool; it connected her with other women who provided support.

For some, participating in an online support group was helpful, for example, in learning how to care for themselves and feeling they were not alone. For others, online support groups, as well as in-person groups that did not focus on maternal mental health, were unhelpful or made them feel worse.

Many participants searched for information to understand their emotions and whether they were in the ‘usual’ range. They wanted to know if certain behaviours, such as not eating for two weeks or lack of interest in spending time with the baby, were normal.

 

Professional and In-Person Support and Information

Some women stated that they didn’t like to search for information online but would rather receive information from a healthcare professional because they offered trustworthy and personalized knowledge. One participant explained that her in-person support group was an important source of advice on taking care of herself. Karmin, who experienced postpartum mental health challenges, wanted to use the information she acquired to help support other women at work with similar challenges; her goal was to validate their feelings and be a good source of information. Another participant described how would have preferred to have local support but could only find online resources.

 

Mixed Experiences with Health Care Professionals

Women told us that it would have been helpful to have more information about maternal mental health during prenatal care, including about symptoms, how common it is, and the potential impact on daily life, as well as that it is okay to ask for help. At the same time, they acknowledged that this sort of information could scare some people. Having access to a reliable list of mental health and breastfeeding resources in their area would have been helpful before they faced mental health challenges. Many were unaware of the possibility of mental health issues during pregnancy. Some were simply asked if they were experiencing problems, and they weren’t sure or didn’t know. In Susan’s case, she was unaware of what postpartum depression was and when her midwife asked if her mother had ever experienced it, she felt embarrassed for not knowing, so she answered no. She later learned about postpartum depression, and realized she should have sought help earlier. Seeking assistance when struggling with these issues was very difficult for several participants. Mirian recalled that her doctor advised her against medication and recommended she see a psychotherapist. However, she didn’t know where to find one and searching for a therapist was particularly challenging while she was feeling unwell. She felt that her doctor could have provided more information and support in finding a psychotherapist, especially when many are without private insurance. Emma also felt that healthcare professionals could better advocate for women during pregnancy. Another participant felt that with better education, it would help reduce the stigma that women feel. Zoe also stated that women should have better, more accurate information about mental health, well-being, and, their child’s well-being. She described how having the right information changed her life.