A qualitative study of treatment needs among pregnant and postpartum women with substance use and depression

Subst Use Misuse. 2013 Dec;48(14):1498-508. doi: 10.3109/10826084.2013.800116. Epub 2013 Jul 2.

Abstract

Little is known about treatment for pregnant and postpartum women with co-occurring substance use and depression. Funded by the National Institute of Drug Abuse, we conducted three focus groups with 18 pregnant and postpartum women in 2011 at an urban substance use treatment clinic. A semi-structured discussion guide probed for factors impacting treatment outcomes and needs. Data were analyzed using grounded theory. Women identified motivational, family, friend, romantic, and agency characteristics as facilitative or challenging to their recoveries, and desired structure (group treatment, a safe environment, and transportation) and content (attention to mental health, family, and gender-specific issues) of treatment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Depressive Disorder / complications
  • Depressive Disorder / psychology
  • Depressive Disorder / therapy*
  • Female
  • Health Services Needs and Demand*
  • Humans
  • Postpartum Period / psychology*
  • Pregnancy
  • Qualitative Research
  • Substance-Related Disorders / complications
  • Substance-Related Disorders / psychology
  • Substance-Related Disorders / therapy*