KNOWLEDGE, PERCEPTION, AND RISK FACTORS OF POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION AMONG NURSING MOTHERS IN SELECTED FACILITIES IN IBADAN NORTH OYO STATE NIGERIA.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant mental health issue among nursing mothers, affecting their well-being and quality of life. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge and perception of postpartum depression among nursing mothers in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. The objectives were to determine the level of awareness regarding postpartum depression, identify factors contributing to its development, and evaluate how cultural, emotional, and social factors influence the perception of the condition. The health belief model theory and Social Cognitive Theory were adopted for this study. A descriptive survey of cross-sectional design was used, with a sample of 150 nursing mothers. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings from the study revealed that majority of the respondents 71(47.3%) were from Yoruba tribe. On the religion distribution, majority 70 (46.7% %) of the respondents were Christians. It was also found that 66(44.0%) the respondents were those who were married. knowledge, attitude, level and risk factors of post-partum depression, the results showed that 103 respondents (68.7%) had heard of postpartum depression, indicating a relatively high level of awareness. The result equally revealed that 74 respondents, representing 49.3%, strongly agreed that postpartum depression is often misunderstood as a sign of weakness or incompetence. Again, the result showed that 75 respondents, representing 50.0%, strongly agreed that financial difficulties contribute to stress and the risk of postpartum depression. The study concluded that increased awareness, education, and support for nursing mothers, along with better mental health care access, are essential in addressing postpartum depression. The study recommends that government health agencies and non-governmental organizations should carry out regular awareness programmes at the community level, using local languages and accessible platforms to reach both educated and uneducated mothers. The study further recommends that husbands, families, and community leaders should be encouraged to support nursing mothers emotionally and physically. Programmes that promote partner involvement and family participation in postpartum care should be encouraged. Keywords: postpartum depression, mental health, health belief model, nursing mothers Word count: 321